At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic sourcing for cutting-edge STEM equipment and services at a world-leading university.
- Company: UCL, a top global university committed to research excellence and innovation.
- Benefits: 41 days holiday, pension scheme, gym access, and employee support services.
- Other info: Join a diverse team dedicated to equality, creativity, and making a difference.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on groundbreaking research and shape the future of science and technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, and strong negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
At UCL, procurement is about far more than purchasing goods and services. It is about enabling world-leading research, supporting academic excellence and helping solve some of society's biggest challenges. As one of the world's leading universities, UCL invests significantly in cutting-edge scientific equipment, specialist laboratory infrastructure and research environments that support discovery across science, engineering, medicine and technology. Our STEM Commercial team manages approximately £120m of annual expenditure and plays a critical role in ensuring researchers have access to the equipment, services and supplier partnerships they need to deliver exceptional outcomes. We are transforming the way commercial and procurement services support research, combining commercial excellence, sustainability and innovation to maximise the value of every pound invested. This is an exciting opportunity to join a high‑performing team at the centre of that ambition.
As STEM Category Manager, you will directly influence how UCL invests in its research capability. You will lead strategic sourcing activity across a diverse portfolio of scientific equipment, laboratory infrastructure, specialist services and research‑related spend, helping shape the future of research across one of the world's leading universities. You will work closely with senior academics, researchers and professional services colleagues to develop category strategies, lead complex commercial projects and negotiate with specialist suppliers operating in highly technical markets. The role offers significant autonomy and visibility. You will manage high‑value procurement activity from strategy through to implementation, using data, market insight and commercial expertise to deliver value, strengthen supplier relationships and support UCL's long‑term ambitions. From enabling new laboratory facilities to supporting major research programmes, the impact of your work will be visible across the institution and beyond.
You are a commercially minded procurement professional who enjoys solving complex challenges and influencing meaningful outcomes. You may already be working as a Category Manager, Senior Buyer, Strategic Procurement Manager or Commercial Manager within higher education, healthcare, research, scientific, engineering or other complex environments. Most importantly, you understand how to balance commercial rigour with stakeholder needs and can build credibility with both suppliers and senior decision‑makers. You will bring experience of leading strategic sourcing activity, negotiating complex contracts and managing supplier relationships that deliver measurable value. You are comfortable analysing data, developing business cases and translating commercial insight into practical action. You thrive in environments where no two projects are the same, enjoy working with highly engaged stakeholders and are motivated by the opportunity to contribute to something bigger than commercial outcomes alone. If you are looking for a role where your expertise can directly support world‑leading research and innovation, we would love to hear from you.
As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits:
- 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays and 6 closure days)
- Additional 5 days' annual leave purchase scheme
- Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
- Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
- Relocation scheme for certain posts
- On‑site gym
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
- Discounted medical insurance
As London's Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world's talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL's workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women.
Category Manager - STEM Equipment employer: Job Search Place Limited
UCL is an exceptional employer that champions innovation and excellence in research, providing a dynamic work environment where procurement professionals can thrive. With a commitment to employee growth, UCL offers extensive benefits including 41 days of holiday, a defined benefit pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development, all while contributing to groundbreaking research that addresses societal challenges. Join a diverse and inclusive community at one of the world's leading universities, where your expertise will directly impact the future of science and technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager - STEM Equipment
✨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 Job Search Place Limited.
✨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 - STEM Equipment
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 Job Search Place Limited:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Job Search Place Limited. 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 Job Search Place Limited.
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨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 Job Search Place Limited!
✨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 Job Search Place Limited. 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 Job Search Place Limited's culture.
