At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead sourcing strategies for maintenance and automotive parts across Europe and Asia-Pacific.
- Company: Join Avis Budget Group, a leader in the rental industry with a global presence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth opportunities, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with strong focus on supplier relationships and performance management.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving cost savings and operational excellence in procurement.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in procurement with expertise in MRO and automotive parts required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
The Senior Category Manager - MRO, Maintenance & Automotive Damage Parts will be based in our Bracknell, UK office and will lead the development of sourcing and supplier strategies for Avis Budget Group's spend across hundreds of rental locations in Asia-Pacific and Europe. This role is responsible for developing and supporting the execution of end-to-end category procurement strategies, managing supplier performance, and driving cost savings while ensuring operational excellence. The position requires deep expertise in MRO and automotive parts, including vended maintenance, as well as strong collaboration skills to effectively align with cross-functional stakeholders.
What you'll do
- Strategic Sourcing & Vendor Management: Develop and implement comprehensive aligned sourcing strategies for MRO / auto parts as well as vended maintenance. Ensure the development of agreements and supplier relationships which secure competitive terms and conditions to mitigate risks related to cost volatility, regulations, and market dynamics. Drive compliance to sourcing strategies across a fragmented supplier base, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and delivery of savings goals. Build and maintain supplier relationships through Supplier Relationship Management (SRM), maximizing value across cost, service, and quality.
- Operational & Global Alignment: Work closely with the regional and local procurement operations teams to ensure development of the most cost-efficient, service optimized supply chains from suppliers to retail sites which includes creation and operationalization of best-in-class inventory management processes. Support the development and implementation of standardized international procurement practices. Share and leverage cross-market best practices to enhance global procurement performance. Collaborate closely with operations, finance, and global procurement teams to ensure strategies meet business needs and deliver measurable outcomes.
- Risk & Performance Management: Monitor supplier performance, ensuring accountability to service levels, quality standards, and contractual obligations. Proactively identify and address supply chain, labor, and cost-related risks. Develop and report on KPIs to measure savings, compliance, and overall supplier effectiveness.
You should apply if you bring:
- Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree (MBA or equivalent) preferred.
- 10+ years of progressive procurement experience, with expertise in MRO, auto parts, vended maintenance industries.
- Proven success in building and executing sourcing strategies across fragmented supplier bases, including driving compliance and alignment.
- Strong stakeholder management and collaboration skills with the ability to influence across functions and levels.
- Solid negotiation, contracting, and supplier relationship management skills.
- Strong analytical and communication abilities with a track record of delivering business-aligned procurement outcomes.
Senior Category Manager Maintenance & Damage in Bracknell employer: Job Search Place Limited
At Avis Budget Group, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Bracknell that fosters collaboration and innovation. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through comprehensive training programmes and opportunities for advancement within the global procurement landscape. Join us to be part of a team that values strategic thinking and operational excellence while enjoying the benefits of a supportive culture and competitive compensation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Category Manager Maintenance & Damage in Bracknell
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry and let them know you're on the hunt for a Senior Category Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its procurement strategies. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in MRO and automotive parts. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications that way!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Category Manager Maintenance & Damage in Bracknell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in MRO and automotive parts, and don’t forget to showcase your strategic sourcing skills. We want to see how you’ve driven cost savings and managed supplier relationships!
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. Share specific examples of your past successes in procurement and how they align with what we’re looking for at Avis Budget Group.
Showcase Your Collaboration Skills:Since this role involves working closely with various teams, make sure to highlight your collaboration skills. Share instances where you’ve successfully influenced stakeholders or worked cross-functionally to achieve business goals. We love a team player!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of MRO and automotive parts. Understand the latest trends and challenges in the industry, as well as the specific sourcing strategies that could benefit the company. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but that you’re genuinely invested in the field.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since this role requires strong collaboration with cross-functional teams, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully worked with different departments in the past. Highlight any experiences where you influenced stakeholders or navigated complex team dynamics to achieve a common goal.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask you to solve hypothetical problems related to supplier performance or risk management. Think through potential scenarios beforehand and prepare structured responses that demonstrate your analytical skills and strategic thinking.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the company’s goals. Inquire about their current procurement challenges or how they measure success in supplier relationships. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
