At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies and manage supplier relationships across Europe.
- Company: Join En Route International, a trusted partner for leading airlines worldwide.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, bonuses, private medical cover, and hybrid working.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Shape the future of food solutions in the travel industry with a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, strong negotiation skills, and a background in fast-paced environments.
About Us: En Route International is the trusted global partner behind some of the world's leading airlines and airline caterers. As part of dnata, one of the world's largest air and travel services providers, we source and deliver premium food and packaging solutions that help create exceptional onboard experiences. Operating across the UK, Europe, USA, Australia and the UAE, we partner with world-class manufacturers to develop tailored products and packaging that meet the unique needs of our customers. Combining industry expertise with supply chain excellence, we manage complex global supply chains with precision, reliability and a relentless focus on quality, innovation and service.
Join a collaborative, customer-focused business where ideas are valued, success is shared, and you'll have the opportunity to help shape what's next.
Reporting to the Head of Procurement, you will take ownership of a key procurement category across the UK and Europe. Using a strategic category management approach, you will develop and implement sourcing strategies, manage supplier performance, and deliver commercial value while ensuring a resilient and effective supply base aligned to En Route's growth ambitions.
This is a highly collaborative role, working closely with Supply Chain, Product Development, Technical, Commercial, and Packaging & Design teams to drive innovation, deliver cost efficiencies, and ensure outstanding service to our customers.
- Develop and implement category and supplier strategies that support business objectives and procurement plans.
- Manage supplier relationships across the UK and Europe, building strong partnerships that deliver commercial value and long-term performance.
- Lead supplier negotiations, contract management and commercial agreements.
- Identify and deliver cost savings, margin improvement and procurement optimisation opportunities.
- Monitor market trends, supply chain developments and category risks, taking proactive action to maximise opportunities and mitigate challenges.
- Drive supplier performance, continuous improvement initiatives and value creation programmes.
- Manage supplier onboarding, category reporting and action planning.
- Collaborate closely with Supply Chain, Technical, Commercial and Packaging & Design teams to achieve business objectives.
- Influence stakeholders across the business and champion procurement best practice.
Proven experience in a Category Manager, Senior Buyer or Procurement Manager role. Background within Aviation, Convenience, Retail, Wholesale, Foodservice or another fast-paced commercial environment. Strong procurement experience across food and beverage categories, ideally including chilled and fresh foods. Demonstrated success in supplier negotiations, contract management and delivering measurable cost savings. Expertise in category management, strategic sourcing and supplier relationship management. Commercially astute with strong analytical and financial skills. Strong knowledge of procurement processes, commercial governance and contract management. Willingness to travel within the UK and Europe as required.
You will be accountable for delivering commercial value through effective supplier negotiations, cost reduction initiatives, margin optimisation and strategic category management. Success in this role comes from balancing commercial performance with supplier collaboration, operational excellence and long-term business growth.
At En Route International, you'll have the opportunity to work in a dynamic global business where procurement plays a critical role in driving growth and innovation. You'll be part of a collaborative team, working with leading suppliers and world-class travel customers while helping to shape the future of food and product solutions in the travel industry.
Benefits include:
- Up to 15% bonus
- Private Medical Cover
- Life Cover
- Critical Illness Cover
- Pension
- Social Events
- Holiday - 25 days per year plus your Birthday and Bank Holidays
- Gym Membership – 50% off at Snap Fitness, Windsor
- Hybrid working (2 days WFH)
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Senior Procurement Category Manager in Windsor employer: En Route International
En Route International is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in the travel catering industry. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development and hands-on experience with ERP/MRP systems, all while being part of a global supply chain team dedicated to operational excellence. Our commitment to process improvements ensures that every team member can contribute meaningfully to our mission of delivering exceptional service.
