At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop procurement strategies to save costs while ensuring quality.
- Company: Dynamic company focused on innovative procurement solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, company car, pension, and hybrid working.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in procurement and shape business strategies.
- Qualifications: MCIPS qualified with 8+ years of procurement experience.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities for travel and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and driven Category Manager to lead and develop indirect procurement strategies that deliver measurable cost savings while maintaining high standards of quality and service. Reporting to the Head of Procurement, you will be responsible for shaping and executing category strategies, managing supplier performance, and driving value across a diverse range of indirect spend areas. You will play a key role in supporting business objectives through strategic sourcing, cost optimisation, and effective stakeholder engagement.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement category strategies aligned with business goals
- Lead sourcing activities, tenders, and supplier negotiations
- Manage supplier relationships, performance, and compliance
- Identify and deliver cost-saving and value-added initiatives
- Monitor contracts, supplier data, and procurement processes
- Support sustainability objectives within procurement decisions
- Collaborate with stakeholders to drive best procurement practices
- Manage supply chain risks and ensure governance compliance
Qualifications
- MCIPS qualified
- Minimum 8 years' procurement experience, with strong indirect category exposure
- Proven track record of delivering cost savings and managing supplier relationships
- Strong negotiation, analytical, and stakeholder management skills
- Able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Proficient in Microsoft Office
Benefits
- Competitive salary + bonus based on objectives
- Company car
- Company pension
- Hybrid working (flexible remote and office-based)
- Opportunity to influence and shape procurement strategy
- Some UK travel will be required.
If you are a commercially focused procurement professional looking to make a tangible impact, we would love to hear from you.
Category Manager (Indirect) employer: Johnsons Workwear Ltd
Contact Detail:
Johnsons Workwear Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager (Indirect)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement world and let them know you're on the hunt for a Category Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity that’s not even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your negotiation skills and supplier management strategies. We all know that being able to showcase your experience in delivering cost savings is key, so have some solid examples ready to share!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to leverage social media! Follow companies you’re interested in and engage with their content. This can help you get noticed and show your enthusiasm for the industry, plus it’s a great way to stay updated on any job openings.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love hearing from passionate candidates who are eager to make an impact in procurement.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager (Indirect)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in indirect procurement and any cost-saving initiatives you've led. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about procurement and how you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention specific examples of your achievements in supplier management and negotiation.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to showcase your strong negotiation and analytical skills in your application. We’re looking for someone who can manage multiple priorities, so give us examples of how you’ve done this in the past!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Johnsons Workwear Ltd
✨Know Your Category Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the specifics of indirect procurement. Familiarise yourself with current trends, challenges, and best practices in the industry. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask you to describe how you've handled specific situations in the past. Think of examples where you've successfully negotiated contracts or managed supplier relationships. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
As a Category Manager, you'll need strong analytical abilities. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in previous roles. Bring examples of cost-saving initiatives you've implemented and be prepared to explain the impact they had on the business.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Highlight your experience in stakeholder engagement during the interview. Discuss how you've collaborated with different departments to align procurement strategies with business goals. This will illustrate your ability to work cross-functionally and drive value across the organisation.