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 50000 - 60000 £ 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 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 that values collaboration and continuous improvement.
Contact Details:
HAYS Specialist Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager
✨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 those 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 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. This will help you feel more confident when it comes time to showcase your skills in real-life situations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for talented individuals like you to join our growing procurement function!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager
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 make sure we see the impact you've made in previous roles!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. We can't wait to hear from you!
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 strategies you used. This will demonstrate your capability in driving value for the company.
✨Understand Stakeholder Dynamics
Think about how you can influence various stakeholders within the organisation. Prepare to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with teams like engineering and finance in the past. Highlighting your ability to align procurement strategies with broader business objectives will set you apart.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations related to supplier management or category strategy. Practice articulating your thought process and decision-making skills. This will help you convey your strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities effectively.
