Category Manager

Category Manager

Full-Time 60000 - 75000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
OCS Group Limited

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead strategic projects in Hard Services and drive savings through effective supplier management.
  • Company: Join a dynamic team at OCS UK & Ireland, focused on innovation and collaboration.
  • Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Be part of a results-driven team that values integrity and proactive problem-solving.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping the future of Hard Services Procurement.
  • Qualifications: Experience in Hard FM and category management with strong negotiation skills.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.

Category Manager – Hard Services

Hybrid working – access required to London / Ipswich.

Reporting to the Head of Hard FM Procurement, the Hard Services Category Manager will take strategic and commercial ownership of selected categories and projects within Hard Services.

Responsibilities include synergy identification and delivery following a recent acquisition; rationalising and integrating two supply chains; consolidating spend; maximising savings delivery; strengthening PSL compliance; and delivering measurable value for OCS UK & Ireland.

The role is highly strategic and commercially critical.

It involves planning, executing and delivering synergy benefits, leading complex negotiations, partnering closely with stakeholders across the business, providing insight, challenging assumptions, influencing senior stakeholders and shaping the long‑term direction of Hard Services Procurement.

Requirements

  • Previous Hard FM experience.
  • Category Management experience.
  • E‑Sourcing experience.
  • Experience negotiating rebate agreements.
  • Results‑driven with a flair for negotiation.
  • Proven experience managing and developing category strategies.
  • Strong commercial capability.
  • Strong supplier management and stakeholder engagement.
  • Track record for delivering year‑on‑year savings and sustainable cost reductions.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Operational discipline (audit trails, version control, governance).
  • Ability to challenge stakeholders constructively.
  • Team player, able to work in a cross‑functional team.
  • Proficient in Microsoft tools (Power Point, Word, intermediate Excel).
  • Comfortable working with data and dashboards.
  • Ability to prioritise and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • High integrity and dependability.
  • Proactive, detail‑oriented, solution‑focused.
  • Critical thinking and problem‑solving skills.
  • CIPS qualification (Level4+).
  • Experience with Source to Contract solutions such as Coupa.
  • Experience working in the FM industry.
  • Understanding of volume‑related discounts and rebates impact on EBITDA.
  • Familiarity with framework agreements, call‑off terms and client flow‑down terms.
  • Key Performance Indicators
  • In‑Year synergy value delivered within 12 months.
  • Supplier rationalisation (% of spend moved / # of suppliers exited).
  • % of spend directed to preferred suppliers.
  • Positive stakeholder feedback.
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Category Manager employer: OCS Group Limited

OCS Group Limited is an excellent employer that values its cleaning specialists by providing comprehensive training and a supportive work environment in Little Stanney. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, the company fosters a culture of teamwork and respect, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered to excel in their role. Additionally, OCS Group Limited offers competitive benefits and a commitment to health and safety, making it a rewarding place to build a career in the cleaning industry.

OCS Group Limited

Contact Details:

OCS Group Limited Recruitment Team

We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager

Category Management
E-Sourcing
Negotiation Skills
Supplier Management
Stakeholder Engagement
Commercial Capability
Data Analysis