At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies in the Utilities and Energy sector for sustainability and cost optimisation.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking not-for-profit organisation focused on energy efficiency.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, hybrid working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with excellent career progression and a focus on innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainability while shaping energy procurement strategies.
- Qualifications: Experience in utilities or energy procurement with strong commercial and analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 65000 £ per year.
As a Senior Category Manager in the Utilities and Energy sector, you will take charge of managing procurement strategies to ensure value for money and sustainability. Working from Leeds, you will play a crucial role in driving efficient supply chain operations within a not-for-profit organisation.
As Lead Procurement Category Manager, you will take ownership of the Utilities category, developing and executing procurement strategies that optimise energy expenditure, mitigate risk and support the organisation's long-term environmental goals. You will lead strategic sourcing initiatives, manage complex supplier relationships, negotiate major contracts and provide expert market insight to ensure the business remains commercially competitive while progressing towards its sustainability ambitions.
Categories may include:
- Electricity procurement and energy trading
- Natural gas procurement
- Renewable energy sourcing
- Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)
- Energy hedging and risk management
- Water and wastewater services
- Utility infrastructure projects
- Metering and energy management services
- Carbon reduction and sustainability initiatives
- Energy consultancy and specialist support services
- Renewable generation and low-carbon technologies
This role requires an understanding of energy markets, supplier dynamics, regulatory developments and sustainability strategies.
Category Strategy & Leadership
- Develop and implement long-term Utilities and Energy category strategies aligned to business objectives.
- Create category plans that deliver cost optimisation, supply security and sustainability outcomes.
- Leverage market intelligence and sector expertise to identify commercial opportunities and risks.
- Establish procurement roadmaps supporting energy resilience and environmental commitments.
- Provide thought leadership on energy procurement best practice and market developments.
Energy Procurement & Risk Management
- Lead the procurement of electricity, gas and utility services across the organisation.
- Manage energy purchasing strategies and support energy risk management activities.
- Monitor wholesale energy markets and provide commercial recommendations.
- Support the development and execution of hedging strategies where appropriate.
- Deliver procurement solutions that balance cost, risk and operational requirements.
Renewable Energy & Sustainability
- Lead strategic renewable energy sourcing initiatives.
- Manage tenders and negotiations for Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and renewable energy projects.
- Support the delivery of sustainability and net-zero objectives.
- Identify opportunities to reduce environmental impact through procurement-led initiatives.
- Collaborate with sustainability and property teams to develop innovative decarbonisation programmes.
Strategic Sourcing & Commercial Delivery
- Lead complex sourcing exercises and tender programmes.
- Negotiate high-value, strategically important agreements.
- Deliver measurable cost savings and value improvements.
- Manage contract renewals and supplier transitions.
- Support major capital investment and infrastructure programmes.
Supplier Relationship Management
- Build and maintain strong relationships with utility providers, energy suppliers and strategic partners.
- Create supplier governance and performance management frameworks.
- Drive supplier innovation and continuous improvement.
- Evaluate supplier capability, risk and market positioning.
- Ensure supplier performance meets contractual and operational requirements.
Stakeholder Management
- Partner with senior stakeholders across Operations, Property, Sustainability and Finance.
- Act as the trusted advisor for all utilities and energy procurement matters.
- Influence decision-making through strong commercial analysis and market expertise.
- Present business cases and procurement recommendations to leadership teams.
- Support organisational transformation and strategic initiatives.
Profile
A successful Senior Category Manager should have:
- Significant experience within Utilities or Energy Procurement.
- Strong understanding of energy markets, purchasing strategies and risk management.
- Experience managing complex utility contracts and supplier negotiations.
- Proven ability to develop and implement category strategies.
- Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills.
- Strong commercial and analytical capability.
- Experience delivering measurable savings and business value.
- Ability to operate effectively within a complex and evolving environment.
Desirable Experience
- Experience with Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs).
- Knowledge of energy hedging and trading mechanisms.
- Understanding of sustainability, ESG and net-zero initiatives.
- Utilities experience across large multi-site operations.
- Exposure to renewable energy projects and decarbonisation programmes.
- CIPS qualification or equivalent professional accreditation.
Job Offer
This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of a strategically critical procurement category with direct influence on operational performance, commercial outcomes and sustainability ambitions.
You will have the opportunity to:
- Lead a high-value utilities and energy portfolio.
- Shape long-term energy procurement strategy.
- Influence major business and investment decisions.
- Drive sustainability and carbon reduction initiatives.
- Work with senior leadership and industry-leading suppliers.
- Deliver meaningful commercial and environmental impact.
- Play a key role within a forward-thinking procurement function.
Rewards & Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Annual performance bonus
- Car allowance or electric vehicle option
- Generous pension scheme
- Private healthcare
- Hybrid and flexible working
- Enhanced annual leave entitlement
- Employee wellbeing and assistance programmes
- Professional development and CIPS support
- Career progression opportunities
- Inclusive and collaborative culture
If you are an experienced Energy Buyer, Utilities Procurement Manager, Category Manager, Energy Procurement Specialist or Strategic Sourcing Professional looking to take the next step in your career, we would love to hear from you. Join a procurement function where commercial excellence, sustainability and innovation come together to shape the future of energy and utilities procurement.
If you are interested in this role, apply now.
Senior Category Manager - Utilities- Energy in Leeds employer: Michael Page
At Michael Page, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that champions community impact through our Social Value Lead role. Our supportive work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, providing employees with ample opportunities for professional growth while making a meaningful difference in the property industry. Located in a vibrant area, we offer competitive salaries and a commitment to employee well-being, ensuring that you thrive both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Category Manager - Utilities- Energy in Leeds
✨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 Senior Category Manager - Utilities- Energy in Leeds
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.
