At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape sourcing strategies and lead supplier relationships in a global food processing company.
- Company: Join JBT Marel, a leader in food processing solutions with a commitment to innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional growth, and a collaborative culture that values your initiative.
- Other info: Opportunity for international travel and exposure to innovative technologies.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on supply chain performance while working with global teams.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering, Business, or Supply Chain; experience in sourcing or category management.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Are you ready to make an impact in a global food processing organisation? JBT Marel is expanding our Prepared Foods EMEA Sourcing team and we are looking for an experienced Category Manager to join us in Adlington. In this role, you will play a key part in shaping sourcing strategies for key direct material categories, working closely with cross-functional teams across the organisation. You will contribute to delivering innovation, cost efficiency, and high standards in supplier quality and delivery performance, helping strengthen our global supply chain.
What you’ll be doing
- Develop and execute sourcing strategies for key direct material categories to support business objectives.
- Lead the full source-to-contract process, including supply market analysis, supplier qualification, RFQs, negotiations, and contracting.
- Build and manage strong supplier relationships, driving performance, cost optimisation, and continuous improvement.
- Collaborate with engineering, production, and project teams to ensure early supplier involvement in development projects.
- Identify and implement cost reduction and value improvement initiatives within the supply chain.
- Monitor supplier performance and ensure delivery, cost, and quality targets are achieved.
- Support innovation and supply chain development through proactive supplier engagement and market insights.
About You
You are a driven and commercially minded sourcing professional who thrives in an international, fast-paced environment. You enjoy working cross-functionally and building strong relationships both internally and externally. You bring a proactive mindset, strong negotiation skills, and a passion for continuous improvement. You are motivated by achieving results and identifying opportunities to optimise supply chain performance.
You’ll bring
- Strong negotiation and supplier management skills, with the ability to drive performance improvements.
- A strategic mindset combined with a hands-on approach to sourcing and supply chain optimisation.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify risks and opportunities within the supply base.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- A proactive and self-motivated attitude with a strong focus on results.
- Interest in technology, manufacturing processes, and supply chain development.
- Willingness to travel internationally (approximately 40 days per year).
Experience & Qualifications
- Degree in Engineering, Business, Supply Chain, or a related field.
- Proven experience in sourcing or category management, preferably within an international manufacturing environment.
- Experience working with global suppliers and managing strategic supplier relationships.
- Knowledge of sourcing markets in Eastern Europe is considered an advantage.
- Experience managing RFQs, supplier negotiations, and contracting processes.
- Strong written and spoken English; additional language skills are an advantage.
- Experience working in multicultural, cross-functional organisations.
What’s in it for you
- The opportunity to work in an international, fast-growing organisation.
- A key role influencing sourcing strategy and supply chain performance.
- Collaboration with global teams across engineering, operations, and procurement.
- Opportunities for professional growth and personal development.
- A collaborative working culture where individual initiative is valued.
- Exposure to innovative technologies and global supply markets.
- Competitive salary and attractive employee benefits.
Who we are
JBT Marel is a global leader in food processing solutions, committed to driving innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence across the industry. With offices in more than 100 countries, we support customers worldwide with advanced technology and integrated solutions for food production.
Interested?
If you are ready to take the next step in your sourcing career and contribute to a growing global organisation, we would love to hear from you. Apply via the “Apply” button and submit your CV together with a short introduction about yourself. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis, and the role may be filled before the application deadline.
For further information about the role, please contact Craig Maiden, Talent Acquisition Specialist.
Category Manager employer: PROSEAL UK LIMITED
JBT Marel is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work culture that values individual initiative and fosters professional growth. As a Category Manager in Adlington, you will play a pivotal role in shaping sourcing strategies within a global food processing leader, benefiting from exposure to innovative technologies and a supportive environment that encourages continuous improvement and cross-functional collaboration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Category Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching JBT Marel and understanding their sourcing strategies. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around supplier management and cost optimisation. Show them you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Mention something specific from your conversation to show you were engaged and are genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at JBT Marel and contributing to their innovative sourcing strategies.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in sourcing and supplier management, and don’t forget to showcase those negotiation skills we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Introduction:Your introduction is your chance to shine! Keep it concise but impactful. Share a bit about your background and why you’re excited about joining JBT Marel. We want to see your passion for the role!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements. Did you implement a cost-saving initiative or improve supplier performance? Numbers speak volumes, so include them if you can!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, we love seeing candidates who follow our process!
How to prepare for a job interview at PROSEAL UK LIMITED
✨Know Your Sourcing Strategies
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of sourcing strategies, especially those relevant to direct material categories. Be ready to discuss how you've developed and executed these strategies in past roles, as this will show your understanding of the position and its requirements.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare specific examples of successful negotiations you've led. Highlight how you managed supplier relationships and drove performance improvements. This will demonstrate your strong negotiation skills and ability to optimise costs, which are crucial for the Category Manager role.
✨Emphasise Cross-Functional Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with engineering, production, and project teams, be prepared to share experiences where you've successfully collaborated across functions. Discuss how you ensured early supplier involvement in development projects to showcase your proactive approach.
✨Stay Updated on Market Trends
Research current trends in the sourcing market, particularly in Eastern Europe if applicable. Being able to discuss these insights during your interview will not only impress your interviewers but also show your commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in supply chain management.
