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- Tasks: Lead procurement for contingent workforce across UK and Europe, guiding clients through sourcing lifecycle.
- Company: Chain IQ is a global leader in indirect procurement, focused on innovation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a first-class benefits package and a supportive, collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team that values your insights and drives impactful commercial outcomes.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in contingent workforce procurement with strong analytical and negotiation skills required.
- Other info: Great Place to Work certified in multiple countries, fostering a diverse and inclusive culture.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 £ per year.
About Chain IQ
Chain IQ is an Independent Global Indirect Procurement company providing strategic, tactical, and operational procurement services. Headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, Chain IQ operates from 6 main centres and 14 offices worldwide. Our team of experts work to transform procurement within an organization utilizing our market knowledge and insights supported by innovative technology to drive procurement efficiencies. We apply the latest risk, sustainability, and social responsibility practices to strengthen procurement resilience. Chain IQ’s approach to ESG supports ethical operations, business standards and bio-diversity whilst minimizing environmental impact.
About the Role
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.
We are Great Place To Work certified in Switzerland, the United States, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Romania, Poland and China. We proudly offer a first-class benefits package to all employees, so come and join Chain IQ and become part of an innovative, inspiring, and high-performing team of entrepreneurs, who are globally connected and locally anchored.
Please let us know if you require any assistance during the recruitment process so that we can work with you to meet your needs. Furthermore, please be advised that if you submit an application to us for this position, your application and personal details will be processed in accordance with our Data Privacy Notice for Job Candidates.
Important notice to Employment Businesses/Agencies: CHAIN IQ does not accept referrals from employment businesses and/or employment agencies in respect of the vacancies posted on this site. All employment businesses/agencies are required to contact our CHAIN IQ recruitment team to obtain prior written authorisation before referring any candidates. In the absence of such written authorisation being obtained any actions undertaken by the employment business/agency shall be deemed to have been performed without the consent or contractual agreement of CHAIN IQ. CHAIN IQ shall therefore not be liable for any fees arising from such actions or any fees arising from any referrals by employment businesses/agencies in respect of the vacancies posted on this site.
Commercial Expert / Category Manager - Contingent Workforce employer: Chain IQ
Contact Detail:
Chain IQ Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Expert / Category Manager - Contingent Workforce
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in contingent workforce management. Understanding the nuances of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and Vendor Management Systems (VMS) will give you an edge during interviews, as you'll be able to discuss relevant market insights confidently.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the procurement and staffing industry. Attend industry events or join online forums where you can connect with others who have experience in contingent workforce management. This can lead to valuable insights and potential referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your analytical skills by reviewing case studies or examples of how you've identified cost-saving opportunities in previous roles. Being able to articulate your thought process and results will demonstrate your capability to drive commercial excellence.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Chain IQ's approach to ESG and sustainability in procurement. Being knowledgeable about their values and practices will not only help you align your answers during interviews but also show your genuine interest in the company and its mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Expert / Category Manager - Contingent Workforce
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Category Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in contingent workforce procurement and your familiarity with MSPs and VMS platforms.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your 5+ years of experience in contingent workforce procurement. Provide specific examples of how you've successfully managed sourcing initiatives, negotiated contracts, and influenced stakeholders in previous roles.
Showcase Analytical Skills: Since the role requires strong analytical skills, include examples of how you've used data analysis to identify cost-saving opportunities or improve supplier performance. This will demonstrate your ability to drive commercial excellence.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a tailored cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also conveys your passion for the role and the company. Mention Chain IQ's commitment to sustainability and ethical operations, and explain how your values align with theirs.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chain IQ
✨Understand the Contingent Workforce Landscape
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the contingent workforce market, especially in the UK and Europe. Familiarise yourself with Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and Vendor Management Systems (VMS) as these are crucial for the role.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to discuss how you've used data analysis to drive cost-saving opportunities in previous roles. Be ready to provide specific examples of how your analytical skills have led to improved supplier performance.
✨Demonstrate Negotiation Experience
Highlight your experience in negotiating contracts and managing sourcing initiatives. Be prepared to discuss your approach to negotiations and any successful outcomes you've achieved in past roles.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Emphasise your ability to manage relationships with key suppliers and internal stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've influenced senior stakeholders and contributed to collaborative projects.
