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- Tasks: Develop and implement strategic sourcing strategies for procurement categories.
- Company: Join KFC UK & Ireland, serving iconic chicken since 1939.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, generous pension contributions, and bonus schemes.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the food industry while driving sustainability initiatives.
- Qualifications: Strong experience in procurement and excellent negotiation skills required.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
We sell the world’s best chicken. Since 1939, we’ve served 1000+ communities across the UK and Ireland, bringing iconic flavor and pride to every table. At the Restaurant Support Centre (RSC) we empower people to bring their best selves to work. We support our restaurants and help them thrive – and you’ll be part of that journey.
About the role
The Procurement Category Manager develops and implements strategic sourcing strategies for specific procurement categories to deliver long‑term value, cost savings, risk mitigation and supplier performance. The role works closely with internal stakeholders and suppliers to ensure category strategies align with business objectives and market trends.
Responsibilities
- Category Strategy Development
- Develop and implement procurement strategies for assigned categories.
- Analyse market trends, supply/demand dynamics and supplier landscapes.
- Identify, evaluate and manage key suppliers to meet quality, delivery and cost objectives.
- Lead supplier negotiations, performance reviews and relationship initiatives.
- Sourcing & Contracting
- Lead RFx processes (RFI, RFP, RFQ) for sourcing initiatives.
- Negotiate and manage contracts, securing commercial terms, SLAs and KPIs.
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Act as the procurement lead and subject‑matter expert for assigned categories.
- Collaborate with business units, legal, finance and technical teams to define procurement requirements and ensure alignment.
- Cost Management & Savings Delivery
- Deliver cost savings and value creation through strategic sourcing, demand management and supplier innovation.
- Track and report savings and procurement performance metrics.
- DTRW (Sustainability)
- Drive sustainability initiatives within suppliers that reduce environmental impact and support Good Growth.
- Risk & Compliance Management
- Identify and mitigate category‑specific risks including supply chain disruptions and non‑compliance.
- Ensure adherence to procurement policies, procedures and regulatory requirements.
Experience
- Strong experience in strategic procurement, category management or supply chain.
- Proven experience in developing category strategies and managing end‑to‑end sourcing processes.
- Strong negotiation, contract management and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Commercial and financial acumen.
- Experience in multinational or matrix organisations.
- Knowledge of ESG/sustainable procurement practices.
- Professional certifications (e.g., CIPS, CPSM, PMP).
ABOUT YOU
- Demonstrable experience in senior supply‑chain roles, ideally within food industry or related field.
- Strong skills in Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
- Quick to learn and apply new knowledge.
- Values action over activity.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Effective team worker.
- Strong drive for results and ambition to grow and develop within the organisation.
Benefits
- Hybrid working from our Woking RSC (just 24 mins from London).
- Up to 11% company pension contributions.
- Friday finishes at 1pm every Friday.
- 5 Live Well Days a year.
- Bonus scheme linked to company & personal performance.
- Private healthcare, Digital GP access & mental health coaching.
- Enhanced parental leave and flexible return options.
- 25% off the chicken.
Application Process
- Apply – submit CV and respond to a few application questions.
- Intro call with our Talent Team.
- Virtual call with Hiring Manager + an Excel task.
- Virtual call with a stakeholder.
Beware of fake job postings using Yum! and/or our brand logos – KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and Habit Burger & Grill – on fraudulent sites. Yum! Brands only posts jobs on official careers pages and never asks for money during onboarding. Avoid unsolicited contacts via Telegram, WhatsApp or similar social apps.
Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
Employment type: Full‑time
Job function: Purchasing, Project Management, and Supply Chain
Industries: Food & Beverages, Retail, and Food and Beverage Retail
Category Manager - Directs in Woking employer: KFC UK & Ireland
Contact Detail:
KFC UK & Ireland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager - Directs in Woking
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research KFC's values, mission, and recent news. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your negotiation skills! Since the role involves leading supplier negotiations, brush up on your techniques. Role-play with a friend or use online resources to get comfortable with different scenarios.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral – which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the KFC family!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager - Directs in Woking
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in strategic procurement and category management, and don’t forget to showcase those negotiation skills we’re looking for!
Be Clear and Concise: When answering application questions, keep it clear and concise. We want to see your thought process, so make sure you articulate your ideas well without rambling on.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; show us what you’ve achieved! Use numbers and examples to demonstrate how you’ve delivered cost savings or improved supplier performance in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and helps you avoid any dodgy job postings out there.
How to prepare for a job interview at KFC UK & Ireland
✨Know Your Categories
Before the interview, dive deep into the specific procurement categories you'll be managing. Understand market trends, key suppliers, and how they align with KFC's business objectives. This knowledge will show your commitment and expertise.
✨Master the Numbers
Since this role involves cost management and savings delivery, brush up on your Excel skills. Be prepared to discuss how you've tracked savings and performance metrics in previous roles. Bring examples of how your analytical skills have led to successful outcomes.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare to discuss your negotiation strategies and experiences. Think of specific instances where you secured favourable terms or improved supplier relationships. Highlight your ability to balance cost savings with quality and delivery.
✨Engage Stakeholders Effectively
This role requires collaboration with various teams. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully engaged stakeholders in the past. Discuss your approach to aligning procurement requirements with business needs and how you’ve navigated complex organisational structures.
