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- Tasks: Lead a team to achieve procurement excellence and drive strategic sourcing.
- Company: Join a market-leading distribution group focused on innovation and growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy autonomy, hybrid work options, and a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a tangible impact in a high-visibility role within a stable business.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership experience in procurement; CIPS qualification is a plus.
- Other info: Commuting distance to Surrey or open to hybrid travel required.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
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Are you a strategic procurement leader ready to shape and elevate a category management function at scale?
A market-leading distribution group is seeking an experienced Head of Category to lead and develop a high-performing team of Category Managers and Buyers. Reporting into the Purchasing Director, you\’ll play a pivotal role in defining and delivering the business\’s procurement strategy across multiple categories, while driving innovation, supplier performance, and commercial results.
What you\’ll be doing:
- Lead and coach a team to deliver consistent procurement excellence.
- Define and execute strategic sourcing plans aligned with broader business goals.
- Negotiate contracts and agreements, optimising value through rebate and marketing deals.
- Streamline the supply chain and drive SKU and supplier rationalisation.
- Own supplier performance and relationship management at a strategic level.
- Represent purchasing at key internal and external stakeholder forums.
- Analyse market trends and identify new product and supplier opportunities.
What we\’re looking for:
- A strong leader with previous experience in managing procurement/category teams.
- Strategic mindset, commercial acumen, and a track record of delivering measurable value.
- Skilled in contract negotiation, supplier performance management, and stakeholder engagement.
- CIPS qualified or equivalent (desirable).
- Based within commuting distance to Surrey or open to hybrid travel.
This is a high-impact, visible role within a stable and growing business where procurement is recognised as a key strategic function. You\’ll enjoy autonomy, support, and the opportunity to make a tangible difference.
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Head of Category employer: Cast UK
Contact Detail:
Cast UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Category
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the procurement and category management field. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even refer you to opportunities at StudySmarter.
✨Tip Number 2
Research our company culture and values thoroughly. Understanding what we stand for will help you align your approach during interviews and demonstrate how you can contribute to our goals as a Head of Category.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your past achievements in procurement and category management. Highlight measurable outcomes from your strategic sourcing plans and supplier negotiations to showcase your impact.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on market trends and innovations in procurement. Being knowledgeable about current developments will not only impress us but also allow you to propose fresh ideas that could benefit our category management function.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Category
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in procurement and category management. Focus on your leadership skills, strategic mindset, and any measurable results you've achieved in previous roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, emphasise your ability to lead teams and drive procurement excellence. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully negotiated contracts or improved supplier performance in the past.
Showcase Relevant Qualifications: If you have CIPS qualifications or equivalent, be sure to mention them prominently. This will demonstrate your commitment to professional standards in procurement.
Highlight Strategic Achievements: When detailing your work experience, focus on strategic sourcing plans you've executed and the impact they've had on business goals. Use metrics where possible to quantify your success.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cast UK
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Category, you'll be leading a team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed and developed teams in the past.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
This role requires a strategic mindset. Be ready to talk about how you've defined and executed sourcing plans that align with business goals, and share specific outcomes from your previous strategies.
✨Prepare for Contract Negotiation Scenarios
Since contract negotiation is a key part of this role, think of examples where you've optimised value through negotiations. Be prepared to discuss your approach and any challenges you faced.
✨Understand Market Trends
Research current market trends relevant to the categories you'll be managing. Be ready to discuss how you've identified new product opportunities and how you can apply this knowledge to benefit the company.
