At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies and manage supplier relationships to optimise value.
- Company: Dynamic organisation focused on innovation and continuous improvement.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a culture of inclusion and adaptability while developing your career.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving strategic procurement in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in indirect procurement and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
This role is responsible for leading the end-to-end procurement and contracting of goods and services. It focuses on strategic category management, supplier relationship management, and ensuring value for money through effective procurement practices. The postholder will design and implement procurement strategies, policies, and processes to optimise spend, maximise commercial value, and support organisational objectives.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement best-practice procurement strategies, systems, and procedures
- Lead strategic procurement planning in collaboration with budget holders
- Create and deliver category strategies aligned to organisational priorities
- Drive stakeholder engagement to ensure adoption of category and supplier strategies
- Conduct market analysis and benchmarking to inform decision-making
- Leverage digital and AI tools to enhance market insight, planning, and tender evaluation
Sourcing & Contract Management
- Manage end-to-end procurement processes, including:
- Supplier evaluation
- Tendering (RFI/RFP)
- Commercial negotiation
- Contract award and implementation
- Support stakeholders in developing specifications and sourcing documentation
- Review and improve contractual terms, including development of standard templates
- Ensure procurement activities comply with internal policies and governance
- Build and maintain strong supplier relationships to optimise value and mitigate risk
- Lead supplier performance reviews and continuous improvement initiatives
- Identify and deliver cost-saving and spend optimisation opportunities
- Work with stakeholders to assess supplier risk and develop mitigation plans
- Support budget planning, monitoring, and control
Governance & Continuous Improvement
- Provide challenge on requirements to ensure commercial efficiency ("need vs. want")
- Contribute to business case development and track benefit realisation
- Champion procurement best practices and continuous improvement
- Collaborate across wider organisational entities to leverage scale and knowledge-sharing
Team & Capability Support
- Support the development of Procurement Officers through coaching and knowledge sharing
- Contribute to building procurement capability and best practice across the organisation
- Provide input on resourcing needs and workload prioritisation
Experience & Qualifications
- Proven experience in procuring indirect goods and services in the private sector
- Demonstrated experience developing and implementing category strategies
- Experience delivering procurement projects within tight deadlines
- Strong background in contract negotiation and supplier management
- Experience with P2P systems (e.g. Oracle)
- Experience managing budgets
Core Requirements
- Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills
- Adaptability and problem-solving ability in fast-changing environments
- End-to-end category management capability
- Commercially focused procurement experience
This is a hybrid role offered as a 6-month fixed-term contract, requiring a balance of on-site and remote working. The role also requires flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and contribute to broader organisational objectives. The successful candidate will work within established governance frameworks and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and inclusion.
Category Manager (Indirect) in London employer: Bruin
As a leading employer in the procurement sector, we offer a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. Our hybrid working model provides flexibility, while our commitment to employee development ensures that you will have ample opportunities for growth and advancement. Join us to be part of a culture that values continuous improvement and inclusivity, making a meaningful impact on our organisational objectives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager (Indirect) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement field and let them know you're on the hunt for a Category Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its procurement strategies. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around supplier management and cost-saving initiatives. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that dream job! We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience directly to the hiring team. Plus, it’s a great way to stay updated on new opportunities.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager (Indirect) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in procurement and category management. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
Showcase Your Skills:Emphasise your strong interpersonal and collaboration skills in your application. We’re looking for someone who can build relationships and work well with stakeholders, so give us examples of how you've done this in the past.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and experience without wading through unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bruin
✨Know Your Procurement Strategies
Before the interview, brush up on best-practice procurement strategies and be ready to discuss how you've implemented them in past roles. This will show your understanding of the category management process and your ability to drive value for money.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully engaged with stakeholders in previous positions. Highlight your communication skills and how you’ve built strong relationships to ensure the adoption of procurement strategies.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Thinking
Be ready to discuss how you've used market analysis and benchmarking in your decision-making process. Bring specific examples that showcase your analytical skills and how they’ve led to successful procurement outcomes.
✨Highlight Your Contract Negotiation Experience
Since contract negotiation is key in this role, prepare to talk about your experience in this area. Share specific instances where you’ve negotiated terms that benefited your organisation and how you managed supplier relationships post-negotiation.
