At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead purchasing strategy, supplier performance, and cost optimisation across the organisation.
- Company: Join a family-owned business focused on building materials supply in Leeds.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary of circa £60,000 and a supportive working environment.
- Other info: Position is site-based and reports directly to the Operations Director.
- Why this job: Shape purchasing strategy and directly influence commercial success.
- Qualifications: Must have experience with procurement software and ERP systems.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced procurement professional looking to make a significant impact within a family-owned business? We are seeking a commercially focused Category Manager to lead purchasing strategy, supplier performance and cost optimisation across the organisation.
Reporting directly to the Operations Director, you will take ownership of purchasing and cost estimating activities, ensuring stock availability, driving supplier excellence and delivering measurable commercial value.
Key responsibilities:
- Develop and implement purchasing strategies that support business growth and operational objectives
- Lead, mentor and develop a high-performing purchasing team
- Negotiate contracts, pricing and commercial agreements with key suppliers
- Build and maintain strategic supplier relationships while driving performance improvements
- Monitor market trends, risks and opportunities to support informed purchasing decisions
- Ensure the timely procurement of goods and services to meet business demands
- Manage procurement budgets and deliver cost-saving initiatives
- Collaborate closely with Operations, Finance, Logistics and Product Development teams
- Identify and introduce new suppliers, products and supply chain solutions
- Drive continuous improvement across purchasing processes, policies and procedures
About you:
- Commercially astute with excellent analytical and financial skills
- Experience using procurement software and ERP systems
- Strong leadership, communication and stakeholder management capabilities
Why this role?
- Opportunity to shape purchasing strategy and influence business performance
- Key leadership role with direct impact on commercial success
- Family-owned business with ambitious growth plans
- Supportive and collaborative working environment
If you're a proactive procurement leader with a passion for supplier development, cost management and continuous improvement, we'd love to hear from you. To apply, please submit a copy of your CV quoting reference 10421.
Category Manager employer: Lord Search and Selection
This family-owned business in Leeds is committed to ambitious growth plans. Employees benefit from a collaborative environment and opportunities for professional development. Join a team that values supplier excellence and continuous improvement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager
✨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 Lord Search and Selection.
✨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
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 Lord Search and Selection:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Lord Search and Selection. 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 Lord Search and Selection.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lord Search and Selection
✨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 Lord Search and Selection!
✨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 Lord Search and Selection. 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 Lord Search and Selection's culture.
