At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead sourcing strategies that drive innovation and sustainability in a global business.
- Company: Join Oxford Instruments, a leader in scientific technology with a rich history.
- Benefits: Opportunity to make an impact and shape sourcing strategies in a dynamic environment.
- Other info: Work in a collaborative culture with opportunities for meaningful change.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that pushes the boundaries of science and technology.
- Qualifications: Strong procurement experience and strategic mindset required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
At Oxford Instruments, we enable the world’s leading industrial companies and scientific research communities to image, analyse and manipulate materials down to the atomic and molecular level. With a sixty-year history, and fourteen Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, our world‑class products and technologies are helping our customers to address the greatest challenges of the 21st century.
Join Oxford Instruments and help shape the sourcing strategies that power scientific innovation. As our GSS Category Manager, you’ll play a key role in driving value, reducing risk, and building a sustainable, high‑performing supply base across the Group.
What You’ll Do
- Lead Direct category strategies that deliver impact across our global business.
- Partner with business leaders to optimise spend, elevate supplier performance, and drive continuous improvement.
- Build strong supplier relationships and negotiate commercial agreements that support quality, service, and long‑term sustainability.
- Guide cross‑functional teams through sourcing projects, ensuring alignment, compliance, and best‑practice procurement.
- Manage supplier KPIs, financial performance reporting, and the Group Approved Vendor List.
- Oversee contracting, supplier quality, and risk mitigation to protect business continuity.
What You Bring
- Strong procurement experience with proven success in Direct Categories.
- Strategic, analytical mindset with the ability to turn insights into action.
- Commercially focused, with solid financial and market awareness.
- Confident communicator and influencer who thrives in a matrix environment.
- Proactive, results‑driven, and always looking for smarter, better ways of working.
- Up‑to‑date on industry trends and passionate about advancing sourcing excellence.
Qualifications
- Degree in a relevant field (preferred).
- MCIPS certification beneficial but not essential.
Why Oxford Instruments?
Be part of a business that pushes the boundaries of science and technology. You’ll have the freedom to make an impact, lead meaningful change, and help shape the sourcing strategies that support our mission to deliver world‑changing tools and solutions.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.
Group Strategic Sourcing Category Manager - Direct Materials High Wycombe employer: Meeveem Limited
At Oxford Instruments, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration. Located in High Wycombe, our team enjoys a supportive work environment that encourages professional growth and development, alongside competitive benefits that promote work-life balance. Join us to be part of a pioneering company that not only values your contributions but also empowers you to drive meaningful change in the world of science and technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Strategic Sourcing Category Manager - Direct Materials High Wycombe
✨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 Meeveem 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 Group Strategic Sourcing Category Manager - Direct Materials High Wycombe
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 Meeveem Limited:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Meeveem 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 Meeveem Limited.
How to prepare for a job interview at Meeveem 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 Meeveem 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 Meeveem 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 Meeveem Limited's culture.
