At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of category strategies for specialist equipment and drive commercial value.
- Company: Join National Grid, a leader in building future energy systems.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus opportunities, flexible benefits, and a strong pension scheme.
- Other info: Hybrid role with excellent career growth and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Shape procurement strategies and make a real impact on sustainability and supply chains.
- Qualifications: Experience in category strategy, supplier management, and leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 65000 £ per year.
About The Role
At National Grid, we're building the energy systems that will power the future.
As we accelerate the transition to a cleaner, more resilient energy network, we're looking for a specialist procurement professional to take ownership of a brand-new category area with the opportunity to shape strategy from the ground up.
This is an exciting opportunity to join our Procurement team as a
Category Manager - Specialist Equipment , leading the development and delivery of category strategies across a critical and evolving area of the business.
You'll have the freedom to establish long-term category plans, develop key supplier relationships and drive commercial value, while ensuring security of supply, managing risk and supporting National Grid's sustainability ambitions.
You'll work closely with stakeholders across the business, providing market insight, strategic recommendations and procurement leadership that help deliver our business objectives.
The role is hybrid with an expectation to attend the office in Warwick upto 2 days a week.
What you'll do
- Develop and implement category strategies for specialist equipment.
- Identify opportunities to create value, reduce risk and improve supplier performance.
- Build strong relationships with strategic suppliers and key business stakeholders.
- Provide commercial expertise, market intelligence and procurement recommendations.
- Lead sourcing activities, contract negotiations and supplier management initiatives.
- Support the delivery of secure, sustainable and resilient supply chains.
- Lead and develop a high-performing procurement team
- What you'll need
- Significant experience developing and delivering category strategies.
- A track record of driving value through strategic sourcing and supplier management.
- Excellent stakeholder engagement, influencing and negotiation skills.
- Experience managing supply chain risk and delivering commercial outcomes.
- Previous leadership experience, with the ability to develop and inspire teams.
- CIPS qualification, degree-level education, or equivalent experience
- What you'll get
- A competitive salary between
£61,000.00 - £76,000.00 – dependent on capability.
As well as your base salary, you will receive a bonus based on personal and company performance and a competitive contributory pension scheme where we will double match your contribution to a maximum company contribution of 12%.
You will also have access to a number of flexible benefits such as a share incentive plan, salary sacrifice car and technology schemes, support via employee assistance lines and matched charity giving to name a few.
- More Information
- This role closes on
13th August 2026 at 23.59 , however we encourage candidates to submit their application as early as possible and not wait until the published closing date as this can vary.
We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all.
We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates – we make appointments purely on merit, assessed against objective selection criteria.
We support flexible working and will make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process should you have any physical or mental impairment which may affect your ability to participate in the process.
Please note that in most cases, National Grid is unable to offer sponsorship for employment under the UK points-based immigration system.
As such, applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship now or in the future under the UK points-based immigration system.
However, in exceptional circumstances where there is a clear and demonstrable need for specialist skills that cannot be sourced from the local labour market, National Grid may consider offering sponsorship.
All applications are welcome from candidates who meet these requirements, regardless of race, nationality, or ethnic origin.
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Category Manager - Special Equipment in Warwick employer: National Grid
Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and collaboration in the telecoms sector. With a strong commitment to employee development, we offer a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance while providing opportunities for professional growth within the dynamic environment of the South West and South Wales. Our supportive culture encourages teamwork and ensures that you play a vital role in delivering secure and resilient communication solutions for the high-voltage electricity network.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager - Special Equipment in Warwick
✨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 National Grid.
✨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 - Special Equipment in Warwick
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 National Grid:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to National Grid. 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 National Grid.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Grid
✨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 National Grid!
✨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 National Grid. 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 National Grid's culture.
