At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead product strategy and manage the entire lifecycle of automotive and leisure products.
- Company: Join a family-run enterprise with over 50 years of market-leading experience.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, profit sharing, early finishes, and generous holiday leave.
- Other info: Enjoy a collaborative culture with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic role with opportunities for international travel.
- Qualifications: Experience in category management and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 53000 £ per year.
Join a premier, family-run enterprise that has spent over 50 years establishing itself as the UK’s foremost specialist in the towing, trailer, and outdoor leisure markets. This is an ambitious, expanding organisation that prides itself on market-leading status and a commitment to quality. We are looking for a strategic Product Category Manager to take a lead role within a high-performing procurement function.
The Role
Reporting directly to the Purchasing Director, you will hold full commercial accountability for the Automotive Aftermarket and Leisure portfolios. This is a comprehensive "cradle-to-grave" role where you will drive the strategy for your categories, from identifying global manufacturing partners to managing product launches and market positioning.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Sourcing: Identify and onboard new global suppliers while optimizing existing partnerships to ensure a robust supply chain.
- Commercial Negotiation: Lead high-level negotiations to secure optimal pricing, lead times, and contractual terms.
- Product Innovation: Drive the development of new ranges by identifying market gaps and working with stakeholders on technical specifications and quality standards.
- Lifecycle Management: Oversee the entire product journey, including inventory health, pricing strategies, and end-of-life transitions.
- Market Intelligence: Stay ahead of industry trends and competitor movements to ensure the portfolio remains at the forefront of the sector.
- Compliance & Standards: Ensure all products adhere to rigorous testing, certification, and regulatory requirements.
- Cross-Functional Leadership: Collaborate with marketing and design teams on packaging and branding, and support the sales team at major industry trade shows.
- International Engagement: Undertake occasional travel across Europe and the Far East for supplier audits and global exhibitions.
The Ideal Candidate
- Proven Track Record: Extensive experience as a Category Manager or Senior Buyer, specifically within a retail or distribution environment.
- Academic Background: Degree-educated in a business or marketing-related discipline.
- Analytical Prowess: Highly data-driven with the ability to interpret complex market trends and translate them into actionable commercial plans.
- Technical Literacy: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint. Familiarity with ERP systems (such as Epicor) is highly advantageous.
- Professional Standing: MCIPS qualified (or currently studying towards) is preferred.
- Agility: The ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment with a focus on hitting commercial targets.
The Benefits
- Salary: £45,000 - £53,000 P/A
- Profit Sharing: Eligibility for an annual performance-related bonus scheme.
- Work-Life Balance: Enjoy an early finish every Friday at 2:00 PM and the option for hybrid working once established.
- Generous Leave: 25 days annual holiday (rising to 27 with tenure) plus bank holidays.
- Enhanced Pension: A scheme that boosts your voluntary contributions by an additional 10%.
- Comprehensive Healthcare: Access to an enhanced health cash plan, 24/7 private GP service, and a full Employee Assistance Program.
- Free on-site parking, retail discount packages, and full provision of business technology (laptop/mobile).
Product Category Manager in Birmingham employer: Procurement People
As a leading water utility provider, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our employees to excel in their roles. With a focus on professional development, we offer numerous growth opportunities and a competitive salary package, including pension benefits, making this an ideal environment for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the infrastructure sector. Our hybrid working model in vibrant locations like Peterborough and London ensures flexibility while contributing to vital projects that benefit communities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Category Manager in Birmingham
✨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 Procurement People.
✨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 Product Category Manager in Birmingham
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 Procurement People:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Procurement People. 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 Procurement People.
How to prepare for a job interview at Procurement People
✨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 Procurement People!
✨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 Procurement People. 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 Procurement People's culture.
