At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive growth in Building Materials through supplier management and strategic decision-making.
- Company: Join HSS ProService, a dynamic team focused on simplifying the hire process.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, flexible working, and a free onsite gym.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative culture that values diverse perspectives and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by connecting customers with trusted suppliers in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in building services and strong negotiation skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
A typical day as a Category Manager
No two days look exactly the same here, and that’s part of what makes it work.
As a
Category Manager , you’ll play a key part in keeping things moving for our customers, suppliers and The Pros around you.
You’ll take ownership, solve problems properly, and work with people across the business to make things simpler, faster and better.
You’ll be trusted to get stuck in, make decisions, and see things through.
What you’ll be doing
As Category Manager for Building Materials, you'll take ownership of one of our key product categories, driving profitable growth through effective supplier management, commercial negotiation, and category strategy.
You’ll develop strong supplier partnerships, identify new opportunities, support our sales teams with technical expertise, and ensure our Building Materials offering remains competitive, profitable, and aligned to customer demand.
Key responsibilities
- Develop and deliver the commercial strategy for the Building Materials category, driving sustainable growth and profitability
- Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers to strengthen and diversify our marketplace offering
- Negotiate commercial agreements, pricing structures, and supplier terms to maximise margin and competitiveness
- Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, driving continuous improvement in service, quality, and commercial performance
- Monitor supplier KPIs and conduct regular performance reviews, implementing improvement plans where required
- Analyse market trends, competitor activity, and customer demand to identify new commercial opportunities
- Maintain an expert understanding of Building Materials products, specifications, and applications
- Monitor category performance and implement initiatives to improve revenue, profitability, and market share
- Provide technical and commercial support to Sales teams, helping maximise customer opportunities
- Deliver product training and category updates to internal stakeholders
- Collaborate with Marketing to develop campaigns that promote the category internally and externally
- Work cross-functionally with Operations, Logistics, Finance, and Supply Chain to ensure seamless category management
- What you’ll bring
We’re looking for someone who knows how to get things done and works well with others to make it happen.
- Proven experience within the building services industry with strong product knowledge
- Experience managing supplier relationships and negotiating commercial agreements
- Strong commercial awareness with the ability to identify growth opportunities and improve profitability
- Excellent analytical skills with confidence interpreting data and making commercially sound decisions
- Outstanding communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels
- A proactive, self‑motivated approach with excellent organisational skills
- The ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced commercial environment
- Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel as required
- It would be great if you also have
- Previous experience in Category Management, Procurement, or Product Management
- Knowledge of the construction, hire, industrial, or material handling sectors
- Experience using ERP systems and advanced Microsoft Excel
- Experience working within a marketplace or multi‑supplier environment
- Most importantly, you’ll bring the mindset of a Pro
- You take ownership
- You communicate clearly
- You work collaboratively
- You look for better ways to do things
- You see things through properly
- What you’ll get back
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Your birthday off every year to spend as you wish
- Healthcare Cashback Plan with money back on things like dentists, opticians and sports massages
- Flexible and hybrid working
- Free onsite gym at head office
- Training and development opportunities to keep growing your skills and career
- Discounts and cashback through our perks platform
- Flexible benefits including Cycle to Work and Holiday Buy
- What it’s like here
At HSS Pro Service, we’re here to take the friction out of hire.
We’ve built a smarter, faster way for businesses to get the tools, equipment and materials they need.
We connect customers with trusted suppliers through one simple online marketplace.
But what really makes it work is our people.
The Pros are the ones who step in, solve problems, keep things moving and make life easier for customers and each other.
We use technology, teamwork and bold thinking to make things simpler, clearer and better every day.
The Pros here are Progress Makers, Professionals, Problem Solvers and Proud of the work they do. People who take ownership, back each other, speak honestly and keep things moving.
- That means
- Say it. Own it. See it through.
- Bring in the people power.
- Be straight, be clear.
- Recognise the graft.
No big egos. No overcomplicated processes. Just good people doing good work together.
Different Perspectives, One Platform – We’re not all the same, and that’s what makes us stronger.
Great ideas come from different people, different experiences and different ways of thinking.
Whether you’re starting out, changing careers or looking for your next move, if you’ve got the skills and the drive, we want to hear from you.
Not sure you tick every box?
Apply anyway.
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Category Manager in Stretford employer: HSS ProService Marketplace
HSS ProService Marketplace in Manchester is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises customer satisfaction and employee growth. With 25 days of holiday, flexible working options, and a commitment to personal development, we empower our team to thrive while making meaningful connections with customers and suppliers.
Contact Details:
HSS ProService Marketplace Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager in Stretford
✨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 HSS ProService Marketplace.
✨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 Category Manager in Stretford
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 HSS ProService Marketplace:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to HSS ProService Marketplace. 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 HSS ProService Marketplace.
How to prepare for a job interview at HSS ProService Marketplace
✨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 HSS ProService Marketplace!
✨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 HSS ProService Marketplace. 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 HSS ProService Marketplace's culture.
