At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement processes and manage a £100m spend while overseeing a team of Category Managers.
- Company: Public Sector client in Central London with a focus on innovation and efficiency.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and a range of benefits.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a supportive and collaborative setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by improving processes and delivering savings in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, strong stakeholder management, and a track record of process improvements.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 70000 £ per year.
Cedar Recruitment are supporting a Public Sector client based in Central London who are looking to hire a Senior Category Manager. This is a permanent position offering a salary ranged from £60,000 up to £70,000 per annum plus a range of benefits. This role will operate on a hybrid working basis with the expectation to be on-site c2 days per week and the remainder from home.
Reporting into the Head of Category, the successful candidate will be responsible for managing 2 x Category Managers and will be responsible for managing a spend of c£100m. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing the end to end Procurement process for a range of requirements, predominantly covering Goods.
Some of the key focus areas for this role include:
- Confidently engaging with Suppliers and pushing back to ensure best service/value for money is achieved.
- Aligning and adhering to internal governance structures.
- Creating and/or improving on internal policies and processes - process improvement is key for this role.
- Supporting commercial and contract management decisions.
Candidates applying MUST HAVE:
- Experience working in a similar role in the Private or Public Sector Procurement marketplace.
- Experience in a Regulated environment would be advantageous.
- Strong track record of delivering savings.
- Strong background developing and implementing process improvements.
- Strong stakeholder and supplier management skills.
Senior Category Manager in London employer: Cedar Careers
As a leading PE-backed services group based in Leeds, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic work culture that encourages innovation and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through tailored development programmes and opportunities to lead transformative finance initiatives, making us an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in finance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Category Manager in London
✨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 Cedar Careers.
✨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 Senior Category Manager in London
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 Cedar Careers:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Cedar Careers. 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 Cedar Careers.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cedar Careers
✨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 Cedar Careers!
✨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 Cedar Careers. 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 Cedar Careers's culture.
