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)
If you require any adjustments or support during the application or interview stages, please let us know - we’re here to help! Any personal data you share with us during the application process will be handled in accordance with applicable data protection laws and used solely for recruitment purposes.
Senior Procurement Manager/Senior 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.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Procurement Manager/Senior Category Manager in Windsor
✨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 En Route International.
✨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 Procurement Manager/Senior Category Manager in Windsor
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 En Route International:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to En Route International. 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 En Route International.
How to prepare for a job interview at En Route International
✨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 En Route International!
✨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 En Route International. 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 En Route International's culture.
