At a Glance
- Tasks: Oversee category management, develop sourcing strategies, and drive cost optimisation in a technical environment.
- Company: Established manufacturing business known for innovation and commitment to safety.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth opportunities, and a focus on sustainability.
- Other info: Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to continuous improvement and operational excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving strategic initiatives and improving business performance.
- Qualifications: Experience in category management and strong negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
The role oversees end-to-end category management within a technical manufacturing environment, developing sourcing strategies, managing key suppliers, and driving cost optimisation. It combines strategic planning with hands-on procurement activity, partnering closely with cross-functional teams to improve performance and support business growth.
Client Details: Our client is an established manufacturing business known for its strong technical capability and commitment to safety, innovation, and continuous improvement. Operating in a regulated, engineering‐led environment, they combine robust production processes with a forward‐thinking approach to category strategy, supplier development, and operational excellence.
Your key responsibilities as Category Manager will be:
- Category Strategy & Governance: Develop, own, and execute multi‐year category strategies aligned with business objectives. Lead category planning including cost roadmaps, technology development, and supplier capability assessments. Segment suppliers into strategic, preferred, development, and exit paths. Ensure category strategies support sustainability and ESG targets, including net‐zero ambitions.
- Sourcing & Commercial Management: Lead major sourcing events, competitive tenders, and complex negotiations. Develop cost models, should‐cost analysis and long‐term cost‐down plans.
Indirect Category Manager - Commercial in Hatfield employer: Michael Page
Our client is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises safety, innovation, and continuous improvement within a technical manufacturing environment. Employees benefit from robust professional development opportunities, a commitment to sustainability, and the chance to engage in strategic decision-making that directly impacts business growth. With a focus on collaboration and operational excellence, this role provides a meaningful pathway for career advancement while contributing to the company's ambitious net-zero goals.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Indirect Category Manager - Commercial in Hatfield
✨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 Michael Page.
✨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 Indirect Category Manager - Commercial in Hatfield
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 Michael Page:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Michael Page. 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 Michael Page.
How to prepare for a job interview at Michael Page
✨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 Michael Page!
✨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 Michael Page. 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 Michael Page's culture.
