At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the strategy for Technology & Networks, managing sourcing and supplier relationships.
- Company: Join Gigaclear, a pioneering Fibre Broadband company transforming communities across the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holiday, health plans, and continuous learning opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative culture that values growth and rewards hard work.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a growing tech landscape while empowering communities with broadband.
- Qualifications: Experience in category management and strong negotiation skills are essential.
This is a newly created role. Technology & Networks is Gigaclear's largest, most complex and highest-risk spend category — covering network equipment, connectivity, IT hardware and software, and managed services. Note: this is a hybrid role, with 1-2 days a week working in our Head Office in Abingdon, Oxon.
Our full-fibre network keeps expanding across England, and our customer base is growing each year. Our technology estate has grown just as fast, and we now require an experienced Category Manager to drive its strategy forward. You will own the Technology & Networks category end to end through building and executing a multi-year category strategy, leading complex sourcing events and negotiations, and turning today's supplier landscape into a consolidated, cost-effective, value-adding one — then managing it from there.
Beyond the category itself, you will play a strategic role in reducing commercial and contractual risk across Gigaclear's supplier relationships and supporting the critical technology transformation programmes that will shape the business's next phase of growth. Gigaclear is a growing Fibre Broadband (FTTP / FTTH) company, developing our fibre-to-the-premises broadband infrastructure to some of the most difficult to reach areas of the UK, empowering those communities with broadband to rival any city.
Staff rewards, benefits and opportunities:
- Generous employer pension; up to 8% matched contribution
- Income protection & life assurance
- 25 days holiday (plus bank holidays), holiday purchase scheme and Yay Days!
- Health cash plan, 24/7 remote GP access and Employee Assistance Programme including counselling & legal advice
- Unlimited access to online training and development content via our Learning Management System
- Long service benefits and monthly employee recognition
- Enhanced maternity and paternity provisions
- Flexible working environment
- Health & Wellbeing initiatives and company funded social events
Our approach is to work guided by our mission, vision and values.
Our Mission: Empowering communities with brilliant broadband
Our Vision: Connected Communities
Our Values: Own it, Find the Right Way, Work Together, Win Together
Senior Technology Category Manager employer: Gigaclear
At Gigaclear, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer by fostering a supportive work culture that values empathy and effective communication. Our Customer Helpdesk Technicians enjoy comprehensive training, opportunities for professional growth, and a commitment to work-life balance with flexible hours. Join us in the UK, where you can make a meaningful impact while helping customers resolve their broadband issues efficiently.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Technology Category Manager
✨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 Gigaclear.
✨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 Technology Category Manager
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 Gigaclear:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Gigaclear. 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 Gigaclear.
How to prepare for a job interview at Gigaclear
✨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 Gigaclear!
✨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 Gigaclear. 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 Gigaclear's culture.
