At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic sourcing and supplier management to drive business success.
- Company: Join a leading manufacturing organisation with a global supply chain.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid working, and clear career progression.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team focused on continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a growing procurement function and enhance your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement roles and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Your new company is partnering with a leading manufacturing organisation with a strong presence in the local market and an established global supply chain. The business is undergoing continued growth and investment, with a clear focus on strengthening its procurement capability to support long-term operational performance.
Your new role involves reporting into the senior procurement function, where you will take ownership of a key spend area, driving strategic sourcing and supplier management activity. Key responsibilities will include:
- Leading the development and execution of category plans to support business objectives
- Managing supplier relationships to ensure quality, cost and delivery targets are consistently met
- Delivering cost reduction and value-add initiatives across your category area
- Conducting market analysis to identify new sourcing opportunities and mitigate risk
- Supporting end-to-end sourcing processes, including RFQs, negotiations and contract agreements
- Working closely with internal teams including engineering, operations and finance to align procurement strategy
- Monitoring supplier performance and implementing improvement plans where required
- Contributing to wider procurement transformation and continuous improvement initiatives
What you'll need to succeed:
- Previous experience in a Category Manager, Senior Buyer or similar procurement role
- Strong negotiation and supplier management skills
- Commercially astute with a track record of delivering savings and efficiencies
- Ability to influence key stakeholders across a business
- Experience working within a manufacturing or engineering environment is desirable
- CIPS qualification or working towards would be advantageous
What you'll get in return:
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Hybrid working options
- Opportunity to play a key role in a growing procurement function
- Clear progression pathways and development support
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.
Category Manager in Belfast employer: HAYS Specialist Recruitment
Hays is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment within a leading manufacturing organisation that prioritises growth and innovation. With a strong focus on employee development, competitive salary packages, and hybrid working options, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact in a key procurement role while enjoying clear progression pathways and a supportive culture.
Contact Details:
HAYS Specialist Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the hunt for a Category Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its procurement strategies. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around supplier management and cost reduction. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since this role heavily involves negotiations, consider role-playing scenarios with a friend or mentor. The more comfortable you are, the better you’ll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’ve got loads of resources to help you ace that interview and land the job you want!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in procurement, supplier management, and any achievements that showcase your negotiation skills. We want to see how you can add value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific examples from your past that align with the responsibilities listed in the job description. Let us know what excites you about working with us!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on quantifiable achievements. Did you save costs or improve supplier performance? Numbers speak volumes, so don’t shy away from showcasing your successes. We love seeing how you've made an impact in previous roles!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just click 'apply now' and follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at HAYS Specialist Recruitment
✨Know Your Category Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the specific category you'll be managing. Understand market trends, key suppliers, and potential risks. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show that you're proactive and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations where you achieved significant savings or improved supplier relationships. Be ready to discuss your approach and the outcomes. This will demonstrate your strong negotiation skills, which are crucial for a Category Manager role.
✨Highlight Cross-Functional Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with engineering, operations, and finance, think of instances where you've successfully collaborated with different teams. Share how you aligned procurement strategies with broader business objectives to showcase your ability to influence stakeholders.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, like managing a supplier who consistently misses delivery targets. Prepare structured responses using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly articulate your thought process and problem-solving skills.
