At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies for the Sizewell C project, shaping the UK's energy future.
- Company: Join the Civil Works Alliance, a collaborative team driving clean energy initiatives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and flexible benefits.
- Other info: Diverse workplace culture that values creativity and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable energy while developing your career in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in construction procurement and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 66000 £ per year.
Help Shape the UK's Energy Future. Category Manager Opportunity with the Civil Works Alliance (CWA), Supporting Sizewell C. As part of the CWA (Civil Works Alliance), you will support the building of Sizewell C. Sizewell C will be a 3.2-gigawatt power station generating low-carbon electricity for around 6 million homes and will play a key role in our energy future, supplying reliable, clean electricity for at least 60 years. This role will be within the CWA Wide Section.
What will you do?
- The purpose of the role is to lead category specific deliverables that enable the development and implementation of project wide Procurement and Supply Chain management strategies.
- Design and delivery of Procurement Strategies for Project Wide and/or high value packages through application of Category Management principles.
- Delivery and execution of end-to-end Sourcing strategies aligned with broader Package strategy through application of Project Wide process including market analysis, supplier selection, risk and opportunity assessments, forecasting requirements.
- Carrying out the procurement process for complex packages in accordance with SZC procurement & supply chain management strategy.
- Provide an ethical and consistent approach to the procurement of high value packages ensuring compliance with project governance and procurement best practice throughout the process to meet current legislation and nuclear regulations.
- Closely work with commercial teams in contract negotiation and carrying out commercial checks for suppliers and past performance.
- Contribute to and provide regular reports on procurement and supplier performance.
- Monitor the supply market to identify potential new suppliers and products and meet with suppliers to understand their products.
- Understand the supplier market, keeping abreast of market developments, demand trends and risks.
- Focus on exceeding minimum service expectations by delivering an agile, value adding service with a deep understanding of customer requirements, technical competence, functional knowledge and process efficiency.
- Establish performance led, long term supplier relationships focusing on value for money, service & product quality and continuous improvement to drive competitive advantage for SZC and Parent Companies.
- Lead a team of Buyers/Senior Buyers.
- Ensure a relentless focus on Zero Harm.
What are we looking for?
- Knowledge & Skills
- Essential:
- Negotiation skills
- Category management
- Legal framework & contracting law
- Supplier relationship management
- Risk & opportunity management
- Project procurement strategy
- Supply chain planning & logistics
- Product knowledge
- Desirable:
- Project management
- Nuclear culture/behaviours
- Commercial & business acumen
- Client & stakeholder management
- People management
- Social sustainability
- Qualifications & Experience
- Essential:
- Experience of working within the construction industry and demonstrated knowledge of the interfaces and relationships that exist.
- Implemented project procurement plans using a wide variety of contract types.
- Good communication skills (verbal & written).
- Can manage and put staff under their supervision to work.
- Lead category specific activities.
- A measured approach to decision making and the ability to ensure best value procurement.
- Has delivered demonstrable added value through their procurement activity.
- Desirable:
- Member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (MCIPS) or chartership with another construction focused Institute (i.e., CIOB or RICS).
What we will offer you?
The CWA is a single delivery organisation made up of the client (Sizewell C) and three parent companies - Balfour Beatty, Bouygues and Laing O'Rourke - which offer industry leading packages including market leading salaries, generous annual leave entitlements, pension scheme and other flexible benefits.
About Us: The CWA celebrates the creativity and innovation that comes from a diverse workforce, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds — especially those from under-represented communities. Our project is built on five core values: Humility, Positivity, Respect, Solidarity, and Clarity. By joining us, you'll be encouraged to bring your whole self to work, speak up, and share your ideas. We encourage applications from all suitably qualified candidates, regardless of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.
Category Manager in Kesgrave employer: CWA: Civil Works Alliance
As a Technical Lead with the Civil Works Alliance, you will be part of a pioneering team dedicated to shaping the UK's energy future through the construction of Sizewell C. Our company fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, offering extensive employee growth opportunities and a commitment to sustainability that makes us an exceptional employer. Join us in making a meaningful impact while enjoying the flexibility of remote work and the chance to contribute to a project that will provide clean electricity for millions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager in Kesgrave
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like CWA: Civil Works Alliance, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Category Manager at CWA: Civil Works Alliance.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager in Kesgrave
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at CWA: Civil Works Alliance
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
