Global Professional Services Category Lead in Surrey

Global Professional Services Category Lead in Surrey

Surrey Full-Time 70000 - 90000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Kimberly-Clark Corporation

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead global procurement strategies for professional services and drive innovation.
  • Company: Join Kimberly-Clark, a leader in consumer goods with iconic brands.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible work, competitive salary, and comprehensive health benefits.
  • Other info: Dynamic, inclusive culture with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on global care while shaping a new industry leader.
  • Qualifications: 10+ years in procurement with strong negotiation and strategic skills.

The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.

Join the team behind iconic brands like Huggies, Kleenex, Andrex, Scott, Kotex, Poise, and Kimberly-Clark Professional. At Kimberly-Clark, it’s all here for you—innovation, growth, and the chance to make a real impact.

You were made to create Better Care for a Better World: as a person, you’re a problem-solver – a connector – someone who thrives on creating order from complexity and driving continuous improvement. You see the big picture while mastering the details, ensuring that every product, process, and partnership flows with precision and purpose. You live your life in alignment with the highest values of integrity, efficiency, and collaboration, always working to turn today’s challenges into tomorrow’s success stories. In this role, you’ll help us deliver better care for billions of people around the world.

This role will be part of Kimberly Clark's International Family Care and Professional (IFP) business—an organization rooted in purpose and innovation that has built a legacy with global impact. As Kimberly-Clark forms a strategic partnership with Suzano to create a world-class international tissue and professional products company, this role is proposed to transfer to the new venture once the transaction closes, anticipated in mid-2026, subject to consultation and other applicable legal requirements. This is a rare opportunity to help shape a new global leader backed by two industry powerhouses. You’ll be part of a high-potential business that combines Kimberly-Clark’s iconic brands and commercial excellence with Suzano’s industrial and sustainability leadership.

About You

In one of our Supply Chain roles, you’ll focus on winning with consumers and the market, while putting safety, mutual respect, and human dignity at the center.

You will lead Professional Services Procurement categories such as Legal, HR, Finance, Integrated Facilities Management, Consulting, Travel, and other key service areas. You will shape global category strategies and execution plans, assessing supplier landscapes and market trends to deliver sustained value. Building strong partnerships with stakeholders will be essential to align with business priorities and ensure adherence to procurement policies and financial governance. You will also create and lead Global Professional Services Procurement communities, connecting and coaching a network of regional buyers to elevate regional and local Professional Services procurement performance.

This role will be responsible for but not limited to:

  • Identify and manage execution of strategic category initiatives (e.g., tail-spend management, supplier-driven innovation)
  • Manage, track, and report on Professional Services spend / sourcing initiatives & savings in the internal tool in collaboration with regional procurement teams
  • Manage cross-regional senior level engagement with business stakeholders on Management Services needs and strategy
  • Lead the development of global category strategies for Consulting, Legal Services, HR/Benefits/Contingent Labor, Integrated Facility Services, Travel, Research and Development services aligned to business needs.
  • Proactive and effective internal stakeholder collaboration and alignment on long term strategic business goals including central functions such as HR, Legal, Finance, Strategy, Research and Development
  • Proven ability to drive long term value with long-range category strategies and strategic thinking
  • Develop & manage global supplier relationships
  • Drive global category strategies to deliver top-tier results through structured negotiations, coaching Regional Category Managers on key negotiations, capitalize on digital capabilities of eSourcing, eAuctions to deliver value with speed.
  • Support the creation and maintenance of category knowledge and processes to ensure strategies remain informed

To succeed in this role, you will need the following qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in business, supply chain or related discipline
  • 10 years+ of experience in Procurement or related, preferred experience in category management, preferably in a CPG company
  • Expert negotiator/results oriented
  • Expert level category knowledge, strategy and execution
  • Ability to work across global regions and cultures
  • Demonstrated ability to deliver results in a global matrixed organization
  • Highly strategic, innovative with strong problem-solving skills
  • Excellent communication skills (Both written and oral) and ability to communicate across multiple levels of the organization, including executive leadership
  • General working knowledge of COUPA, MS Office, and other relevant procurement tools and systems

Led by Purpose. Driven by You.

Total Benefits

We believe that our employees are our greatest asset, and we're committed to providing them with the resources they need to be successful. If you're looking for a rewarding career with a company that cares about its employees, then Kimberly-Clark is the place for you.

  • Market-leading pension contribution.
  • Bonus scheme.
  • Flexible Savings and spending accounts to maximise health care options and stretch pounds when caring for yourself or dependents.
  • Private Medical Insurance, great support for good health with medical, dental, and vision coverage options.
  • Diverse income protection insurance options to protect yourself and your family in case of illness, injury, or other unexpected events.
  • Additional programs and support to continue your education, adopt a child, relocate, or even find temporary childcare.

Flex That Works at Kimberly-Clark

We believe great work happens when people come together with purpose. That’s why we offer a flexible work model that blends remote work with intentional in-person collaboration — helping you connect, grow, and innovate while maintaining the balance you value.

To Be Considered

Click the Apply button and complete the online application process. A member of our recruiting team will review your application and follow up if you seem like a great fit for this role. In the meantime, please check out the careers website.

And finally, the fine print....

For Kimberly-Clark to grow and prosper, we must be an inclusive organization that applies the diverse experiences and passions of its team members to brands that make life better for people all around the world, which is why we seek to build a workforce that encompasses the experiences of our consumers. When you bring your original thinking to Kimberly-Clark, you fuel the continued success of our enterprise. We are a committed equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification. Statements are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and skills required for this position. Employment is subject to verification of local policies.

This role is available for local candidates already authorised to work in the role’s country only. Kimberly-Clark will not provide relocation support for this role.

Global Professional Services Category Lead in Surrey employer: Kimberly-Clark Corporation

At Kimberly-Clark, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values innovation, collaboration, and employee growth. Our Walton Oaks location offers a flexible work model that encourages a healthy work-life balance while providing market-leading benefits, including a generous pension scheme and comprehensive health coverage. Join us to be part of a purpose-driven team that is committed to making a positive impact on the world through our iconic brands.

Kimberly-Clark Corporation

Contact Details:

Kimberly-Clark Corporation Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Global Professional Services Category Lead in Surrey

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those who work at Kimberly-Clark or similar companies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could help you stand out.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for the interview by researching the company’s values and recent projects. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in how you can contribute to their mission of creating Better Care for a Better World.

Tip Number 3

Practice your negotiation skills! As a Global Professional Services Category Lead, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to drive value through negotiations. Role-play with a friend or use online resources to sharpen those skills.

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 team at Kimberly-Clark.

We think you need these skills to ace Global Professional Services Category Lead in Surrey

Strategic Category Management
Procurement Expertise
Negotiation Skills
Stakeholder Engagement
Cross-Regional Collaboration
Supplier Relationship Management
Data Analysis and Reporting

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Global Professional Services Category Lead role. Highlight your experience in procurement and category management, and show how your skills align with our mission at Kimberly-Clark.

Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, emphasise your ability to tackle complex challenges and drive continuous improvement. We love candidates who can demonstrate strategic thinking and innovative solutions, so share specific examples from your past experiences.

Communicate Clearly:Since excellent communication is key for this role, ensure your written application is clear and concise. Use professional language but let your personality shine through – we want to get to know the real you!

Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our careers website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and keep track of your application. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team.

How to prepare for a job interview at Kimberly-Clark Corporation

Know Your Categories Inside Out

Before the interview, dive deep into the specific Professional Services categories you'll be managing. Understand the latest trends in Legal, HR, Finance, and Consulting. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show that you're ready to hit the ground running.

Showcase Your Strategic Thinking

Prepare examples of how you've developed and executed category strategies in the past. Be ready to discuss how you identified opportunities for savings or innovation. This will demonstrate your ability to think strategically and align with the company's long-term goals.

Highlight Your Negotiation Skills

Since this role requires expert negotiation skills, come prepared with specific instances where you've successfully negotiated contracts or managed supplier relationships. Use metrics to quantify your success, like cost savings or improved service levels, to make your case even stronger.

Emphasise Collaboration and Communication

This position involves working across global regions and cultures, so be ready to discuss how you've effectively collaborated with diverse teams. Share examples of how you've communicated complex ideas to different stakeholders, especially at senior levels, to ensure alignment and drive results.