At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead category strategies for Facilities Management and optimise supplier performance.
- Company: Join Biffa, a leader in sustainable waste management.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with rewarding challenges.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainability and innovation in waste management.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in strategic procurement and CIPS qualified.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
The Category Manager is responsible for developing and implementing category strategies for Facilities Management services and related procurement spend across Biffa. The role focuses on optimizing supplier performance, delivering cost savings, managing risks, and ensuring the procurement of high-quality FM services that support business operations.
Your Core Responsibilities
- Develop a detailed understanding of specific key spend areas and subsequently tender, negotiate and award contracts.
- Deliver annual savings targets and supplier quality and delivery expectations.
- Develop and maintain an overall set of category strategies to continue to drive cost out, mitigate risk and encourage innovation on a multi-year basis.
- Manage sustainability requirements and ensure compliance with SBTi targets.
- Ensure accurate reporting of savings delivery and maintain excellent stakeholder relationships.
- Ensure compliance with processes, standards and systems as determined by the Procurement Excellence team.
Essential Requirements
- Over 5 years experience of strategic Procurement in a category-management based model with specific knowledge of one of the specific category areas.
- Degree educated and CIPS Qualified.
- Experience in waste management, manufacturing or logistics organisations preferable.
- Strong negotiation skills with the ability to influence stakeholders within matrix organisations.
- Experience of major supplier relationships and ability to interact at account manager level with large supplier partners.
Biffa - we're changing the way people think about waste. At Biffa, we love working with waste. Whether we're turning it into sustainable power, finding new ways to recycle it or simply keeping it off the streets, we believe every day is an opportunity to improve the lives of millions. It's a view that's shared by our 11,000+ people around the country, who trust us to provide them with a career that's always rewarding, often challenging, but never dull. We believe different ideas, perspective and backgrounds are key to developing a creative and effective working environment which is why you'll find us championing diversity and equality at every turn.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager - Facilities Management
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like Biffa.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager - Facilities Management
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Biffa:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Biffa. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like Biffa.
How to prepare for a job interview at Biffa
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at Biffa!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at Biffa. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into Biffa's culture.
