At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic projects in Hard Services and drive cost-saving initiatives.
- Company: Join OCS UK & Ireland, a top facilities management company with a strong commitment to values.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible pay, digital learning, and exclusive retail perks.
- Other info: Be part of an award-winning team that values diversity and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping procurement strategies and delivering measurable value.
- Qualifications: Experience in Hard FM and category management with strong negotiation skills.
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, with particular responsibility for synergy identification and delivery following a recent acquisition. This includes rationalising and integrating two supply chains, consolidating spend, maximising savings delivery, strengthening PSL compliance and delivering measurable value for OCS UK & Ireland.
This is a highly strategic and commercially critical role, responsible for planning, executing and delivering synergy benefits, leading complex negotiations, and partnering closely with stakeholders across the business. The Category Manager will be expected to provide insight, challenge assumptions, influence senior stakeholders and help shape the long-term direction of Hard Services Procurement.
Qualifications and experience:
- Previous Hard FM experience.
- Category Management experience.
- E-Sourcing experience.
- Used to working with and negotiating Rebate agreements.
- Results driven with a flair for negotiation.
- Proven experience managing and developing category strategies.
- Strong supplier management and stakeholder engagement.
- Proven track record for delivering year-on-year savings and driving significant, sustainable cost reductions.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Operational discipline, including audit trails, version control and clear governance.
- Ability to challenge stakeholders constructively.
- A strong team player with the ability to work in a cross-functional team.
- Proficient in Microsoft Tools (PowerPoint, Word and Intermediate Level Excel).
- Comfortable working with data and dashboards.
- Ability to prioritise and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- High level of integrity and dependability.
- Proactive, detail-oriented and solution focused.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Experience using Source to Contract Solutions such as Coupa.
- Experience working in FM industry.
- An understanding of how volume related discounts and rebates impact EBITDA.
- Familiarity with framework agreements, call-off terms and client flow-down terms.
Key performance indicators:
Performance targets will be set and reviewed quarterly, taking into consideration pipeline volume and maturity of supply chain and overall procurement targets. KPIs are likely to include:
- In-Year synergy value delivered within 12 months.
- Supplier rationalisation (% of spend moved / # of suppliers exited).
- % of spend directed to preferred suppliers.
About The Company:
OCS UK & Ireland is a leading facilities management company with 50,000+ colleagues and a turnover in excess of £2bn. We deliver innovative, award-winning services within facilities management, hard services, cleaning, security and catering. Our mission is to make people and places the best they can be for our colleagues, customers and the communities we serve. Our commitment to doing business the right way is rooted in our TRUE values - Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment.
Why Work for OCS?
- Award-Winning Employer: Ranked 36th on Glassdoor’s Best Companies to Work For 2025 — we value and motivate our people.
- Digital Learning: The OCS Academy offers digital courses and resources to help you build skills and grow your career.
- Retail Perks: With our Hapi app, you can gain access to exclusive discounts, rewards and wellbeing resources.
- Professional Growth: 600+ live learners across UK&I — Empowering colleagues with further development and qualifications!
- Flexible Pay: Access a portion of earned wages before payday with our Wagestream App! (Contract Specific)
We are an equal opportunities employer and rely on a diverse workforce with a broad range of knowledge, skills, and backgrounds to deliver our goals. We offer an inclusive and welcoming environment and actively encourage applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or age.
Category Manager employer: OCS
OCS is an excellent employer that values its employees by fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture in Bristol. With opportunities for personal growth and development, you will be part of a dedicated team that prioritises customer satisfaction and teamwork, making every day rewarding and meaningful.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager
✨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 OCS.
✨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
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 OCS:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to OCS. 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 OCS.
How to prepare for a job interview at OCS
✨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 OCS!
✨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 OCS. 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 OCS's culture.
