Category Manager - GNFR - (Fixed-Term Contract) - Drive Strategic Procurement. Create Lasting Impact.
We're looking for an experienced Indirect Category Manager to join our evolving Procurement team on a fixed-term basis. This is an exciting opportunity to shape procurement strategy, influence key business decisions and deliver tangible value across a diverse portfolio of indirect spend.
You'll play a critical role in leading strategic sourcing initiatives, developing supplier partnerships and helping the business move from tactical purchasing to a more strategic, value-driven procurement approach.
What You’ll Do
As an Indirect Category Manager, you'll work closely with stakeholders across the business to understand priorities, identify opportunities, and deliver strategic procurement solutions that support long-term growth and operational success.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading end-to-end strategic sourcing projects across a range of indirect categories.
- Managing contract negotiations, supplier selection, implementation, and ongoing contract performance.
- Partnering with stakeholders across multiple functions to align procurement activity with business objectives.
- Supporting the development and delivery of the wider indirect procurement strategy.
- Building and maintaining strong supplier relationships to maximise value, performance, and innovation.
- Identifying opportunities for cost savings, efficiencies, and process improvements.
- Monitoring and reporting on procurement performance and strategic initiatives.
- Driving best practice in procurement, sustainability, and supplier management in line with ESG commitments.
We’re happy to explore flexible working options. Feel free to chat with us about it during the interview. While we might not be able to meet every request, we’ll always listen with an open mind - and there’s no judgment in asking.
What You’ll Bring
We're interested in professionals who can demonstrate:
- Proven experience within a procurement or category management role, ideally across indirect or GNFR categories.
- Strong commercial and negotiation skills, with a track record of delivering value and cost improvements.
- Experience leading procurement initiatives and influencing stakeholders within complex organisations.
- Excellent relationship-building and stakeholder management capabilities.
- Strong analytical skills and confidence using data to support decision-making.
- Knowledge of procurement best practice, supplier management, and contract negotiation.
- A collaborative, adaptable approach and the ability to thrive in a dynamic, evolving environment.
- Degree-level qualification in a relevant field and/or professional procurement qualifications such as CIPS (desirable).
- Experience within IT procurement would be advantageous but is not essential.
This is an opportunity to make a genuine impact within a growing organisation where procurement is evolving and gaining increasing strategic importance. You'll work alongside experienced colleagues, influence business-wide decisions, and contribute to the development of a best-in‑class indirect procurement function.
What’s in it for you:
We believe great work should be recognised and rewarded. Here’s what you can expect:
- A strong annual leave allowance, alongside your bank holidays
- Company bonus scheme, based on performance
- Contributory pensionand life assurance
- Discounts onhigh street retailers, supermarkets, restaurants, gyms and cinemas
- Colleague discountacross our group brands
- Attraction and travel discounts
- Training and developmentprogrammes to support your growth
We offer on-the-job training and opportunities to work towards recognised qualifications, including apprenticeships.
At Huws Gray, we believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce makes us stronger, smarter and better at serving our customers.
We’re proud to be an equal opportunities employer and we are committed to creating a respectful and inclusive workplace, whether you’re based in one of our branches, on the road or in one of our offices.
If you need any adjustments to support you through the application or interview process, please let us know.
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Category Manager - GNFR employer: Huws Gray Group.
Huws Gray Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation in the North East. With a strong focus on employee development and performance, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while working in a supportive environment that values customer experience and teamwork. Join us to be part of a thriving organisation that champions your professional journey and fosters meaningful partnerships across various sectors.
