At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead sourcing and commercial management of engineering services at Heathrow.
- Company: Heathrow, the world's most iconic airport, embracing innovation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, generous leave, and private health insurance.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape supplier partnerships and drive excellence in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in category management and strategic sourcing within critical operational environments.
The predicted salary is between 56250 - 68750 £ per year.
Monday-Friday Business hours Join Heathrow's Engineering Procurement team and lead the sourcing and commercial management of critical engineering services that keep the airport safe, reliable and resilient.
You'll own complex, high-value activity from early market engagement through contract award and mobilisation, while shaping supplier partnerships that deliver long-term value, innovation and operational performance.
Qualifications Significant category management and strategic sourcing experience within engineering, infrastructure, FM or another operationally critical environment.
A proven record of leading complex tenders from market engagement through to implementation, delivering measurable value while managing operational and supplier risk.
Strong commercial judgement, including experience drafting and negotiating contracts and using different procurement and contracting models.
Credible supplier relationship management, stakeholder influencing and problem-solving skills, with the ability to lead, coach and develop others.
MCIPS qualification (desirable)#LI-Hybrid Responsibilities Develop and deliver short and long-term category strategies, priorities and procurement pipelines aligned to engineering and operational needs.
Lead end-to-end sourcing for complex, high-value spend, including market sounding, supply-chain assessment, RFI/RFP, evaluation, negotiation, contract award and mobilisation.
Shape robust commercial agreements, including specifications, KPIs, service levels, pricing models.
Provide clear commercial advice on route to market, contracting models, CAPEX versus OPEX options, affordability, interface risk and regulatory requirements.
Lead strategic supplier relationships and governance, resolving material commercial or performance issues while driving continuous improvement, resilience, innovation and additional value.
Build trusted relationships across Engineering, Operations, Legal, Insurance and Finance; challenge constructively, manage risk and ensure sourcing decisions meet Heathrow governance and competition-law requirements.
Our vision at Heathrow is to be an extraordinary airport, fit for the future.
You'll help us to get the balance right so we can continue investing in our world-class environment.
There's something so special about working at the world's most iconic airport.
a place that embraces digital innovation and has a sustainable mindset.
You'll become part of a team that drives excellence across everything from insurance to investment, treasury to business partnering, as you collaborate widely to deliver projects that directly impact millions of passengers each year.
About the company There's something so special about working at the world's most iconic airport. Heathrow is an amazing backdrop to a career filled with unique opportunities.
Every day, you'll discover a world full of fresh possibilities and end the day buzzing with stories to tell, as you encounter people from all cultures, nationalities and experiences.
Together, we're working to welcome millions more passengers while ensuring aviation can continue to be a force for good by leading global efforts in sustainability.
Join us on that journey and we'll help you achieve your ambitions too.
Because there's no place like Heathrow.
Our rewards We offer competitive salaries and excellent benefits that will support you now and in the future.
As well as performance-based annual bonuses and our longer-term Share in Success Bonus plans, we also offer generous annual leave allowances and market-leading pensions.
With family friendly policies, access to private health insurance and a wide range of wellbeing tools, we'll support you to be at your best inside and outside work.
And of course, we'll provide varied learning and development opportunities too.
Working Location Our Hybrid working approach offers the opportunity for colleagues in some roles to work from home for an average of two days a week, providing the flexibility to work in an agile way whilst ensuring we deliver for the operational needs of Heathrow.
Sustainable Travel to work Heathrow's Sustainable Travel Guide sets out easy and sustainable travel options that everyone can access.
We believe that diverse talent makes us stronger – not least because we welcome passengers from all corners of the globe, every single day.
With five diversity networks, we champion inclusivity and celebrate individuality.
Senior Indirect Category Manager in London employer: Heathrow Airport Holdings
Heathrow Airport is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation meets tradition. As an IT Programme Lead, you'll be part of a collaborative team dedicated to shaping the future of aviation technology, with access to extensive learning and development opportunities, competitive salaries, and generous benefits. The airport's unique atmosphere, diverse culture, and commitment to sustainability make it a truly inspiring place to build a rewarding career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Indirect Category Manager in London
✨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 Heathrow Airport Holdings.
✨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 Indirect Category Manager in London
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 Heathrow Airport Holdings:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Heathrow Airport Holdings. 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 Heathrow Airport Holdings.
How to prepare for a job interview at Heathrow Airport Holdings
✨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 Heathrow Airport Holdings!
✨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 Heathrow Airport Holdings. 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 Heathrow Airport Holdings's culture.
