At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement for contingent workforce, driving strategy and negotiations across UK and Europe.
- Company: Join Chain IQ, a global AI-driven Procurement Service Partner with a culture of innovation.
- Benefits: Dynamic international environment, competitive salary, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Be part of a Great Place to Work-certified team that values your voice and ideas.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in procurement while working with cutting-edge technology and a collaborative team.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in contingent workforce procurement and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
At Chain IQ, your ideas move fast. Chain IQ is a global AI-driven Procurement Service Partner, headquartered in Baar, Switzerland, with operations across main centers and 16 offices worldwide. We provide tailored, end-to-end procurement solutions that enable transformation, drive scalability, and deliver substantial reductions in our clients' indirect spend. Our culture is built on innovation, entrepreneurship, ownership, and impact. Here, your voice matters - bold thinking is encouraged, and action follows ambition.
Chain IQ is seeking a commercially savvy and data-driven Category Manager to lead procurement efforts for Contingent Workforce across the UK and European markets. You will be part of a collaborative, fast-paced team that supports our clients through the full sourcing lifecycle—from strategy and market analysis to negotiation and contract execution. This role is ideal for candidates with a strong understanding of Managed Service Providers (MSPs), Vendor Management Systems (VMS), and the professional staffing industry, who are passionate about delivering best-in-class commercial outcomes. Whether you come from a leading MSP or have managed the contingent workforce category in-house, you’ll thrive here if you’re analytically sharp, client-focused, and keen to optimize total cost of workforce ownership.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead end-to-end sourcing initiatives for contingent workforce and temporary staffing categories.
- Serve as a trusted commercial advisor to clients, guiding them on market trends, rate benchmarks, supplier strategies, and compliance considerations.
- Drive commercial excellence in deals involving MSPs and VMS platforms (e.g., Fieldglass, Beeline, VNDLY).
- Analyze large datasets to identify cost-saving opportunities and improve supplier performance.
- Run market tenders, evaluate bids with cross-functional teams, and negotiate competitive commercial terms.
- Draft and structure contracts aligned with client needs, with limited legal support.
- Manage relationships with key suppliers and internal stakeholders at all levels.
- Contribute to sourcing strategy and category planning through market intelligence.
- Mentor junior team members where applicable and support knowledge-sharing across teams.
What We’re Looking For
- University degree or equivalent.
- Minimum 5+ years’ experience in contingent workforce procurement, staffing supplier management, or working within an MSP/VMS environment.
- Strong working knowledge of UK and European staffing markets, commercial models, and compliance factors (e.g., co-employment, IR35, mark-up structures).
- Hands-on experience with VMS platforms (e.g., Fieldglass, Beeline, VNDLY).
- Proven track record in managing sourcing initiatives, negotiating contracts, and influencing senior stakeholders.
- Excellent analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.
- Comfortable working independently and collaboratively in fast-paced, multi-client environments.
Join a truly global team. We offer a dynamic and international environment where high performance meets real purpose. We're proud to be Great Place to Work-certified and even prouder of the people who make that possible. Let’s shape the future of procurement - together. Chain IQ – Create. Lead. Make an impact.
Contingent Workforce Procurement in London employer: Chain IQ Group AG
At Chain IQ, we pride ourselves on fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, where your ideas can truly make an impact. As a Great Place to Work-certified employer, we offer a dynamic international environment that encourages professional growth and development, ensuring that every team member has the opportunity to thrive. Join us in Baar, Switzerland, and be part of a forward-thinking team that values bold thinking and action-oriented results.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contingent Workforce Procurement in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the procurement field. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Chain IQ and understanding their approach to procurement. Familiarise yourself with their values and recent projects. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their innovative team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Category Manager, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate effectively. Role-play scenarios with friends or colleagues to build confidence and refine your approach before the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining Chain IQ and ready to make an impact in the procurement world.
We think you need these skills to ace Contingent Workforce Procurement in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for procurement and the contingent workforce shine through. We want to see that you’re not just ticking boxes but genuinely excited about the role and what you can bring to the table.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience with MSPs, VMS platforms, and the staffing industry. We love seeing how your background aligns with our needs, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant achievements!
Be Data-Driven:Since we’re all about data at Chain IQ, include specific examples of how you've used data to drive decisions or improve outcomes in your previous roles. Numbers speak volumes, so back up your claims with solid evidence!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chain IQ Group AG
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and Vendor Management Systems (VMS). Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in the UK and European staffing markets, as well as compliance factors like IR35. This will show that you're not just a candidate, but a knowledgeable partner who can add real value.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to discuss specific examples where you've analysed large datasets to identify cost-saving opportunities. Be ready to explain how your insights led to improved supplier performance or better commercial outcomes. This is your chance to demonstrate your analytical prowess and how it can benefit Chain IQ.
✨Be a Negotiation Ninja
Since negotiation is key in this role, think of past experiences where you successfully negotiated contracts or influenced senior stakeholders. Bring these stories to the table during your interview. Highlight your strategies and the outcomes to showcase your ability to drive commercial excellence.
✨Engage and Ask Questions
Don’t forget that interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about Chain IQ’s approach to procurement and how they foster innovation within their teams. This shows your genuine interest in the company and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
