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- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies and manage supplier relationships in the aerospace sector.
- Company: Join Rolls-Royce, a leader in innovation and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Generous leave, retirement savings, life assurance, and share ownership opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a transformative journey at a globally respected company.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while driving change and innovation.
- Qualifications: Degree or CIPS qualifications with experience in procurement and negotiation.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Procurement Category Manager
Full time
Bristol/Hybrid
Why join Rolls-Royce?
At Rolls-Royce we are proud to be a business that has truly helped to shape the modern world and we are committed to always being a force for progress; powering, protecting and connecting people everywhere. By joining Rolls-Royce, you'll have the opportunity to work on world-class solutions, supported by a culture that champions inclusivity, creativity, and your professional growth.
Position Summary
As a Procurement Category Manager, you'll be responsible for major aerospace supplier accounts within the (EMEA) Europe & Row region. This role combines post-award contract management with Commercial Subject Matter Expertise, driving value through in-contract cost, performance management and risk mitigation strategies. Beyond this, championing Digital and Sprint Project Management, leading rapid-response initiatives and digital upskilling programs that modernize category operations and deliver on high-priority leadership mandates.
What you'll be doing
In this role, you'll lead a team of buyers and take ownership of developing and deploying global commodity strategies. You'll manage strategic sourcing, commercial risk, and supplier performance while driving value, resilience, and competitive advantage. You'll also coach and mentor your team, helping to strengthen our overall sourcing capability.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Leading complex negotiations and business cases, including cost modelling, contract drafting, and stakeholder alignment.
- Developing and maintaining integrated category strategies to ensure long-term supply chain resilience and value creation.
- Managing supplier relationships and performance, ensuring appropriate contractual coverage and mitigating commercial risk.
- Supporting supplier consolidation and cost-saving initiatives across critical supply chains.
- Driving a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing within your team.
Position qualifications
To be successful in this role, you'll bring strong commercial acumen and a strategic mindset. You'll thrive in a dynamic environment and enjoy solving complex problems. Specifically, you'll need:
- A degree (BA level) and/or CIPS qualifications.
- Experience in Direct and/or Indirect Procurement within a regulated or complex industry.
- A track record of leading negotiations at a senior level and delivering commercial value.
- Expertise in category strategy development, supplier management, and in-contract performance.
- Understanding of Total Cost of Acquisition / Product Cost Lifecycles and commercial levers.
- A passion for driving change and making a measurable difference.
Regional Benefits
- Generous Annual Leave
- Retirement Savings
- Group Life Assurance provides for a lump sum benefit if you die whilst employed by Rolls-Royce
- Group Income Protection provides an income in the event that you are unable to work due to illness or injury
- Your Shares: Matched is a simple way to own Rolls-Royce shares and invest in our future, together. Buy one share, get one free!
Our vision is to ensure that the excellence and ingenuity that shaped our history continues into our future. Our multi-year transformation programme aims to turn Rolls-Royce into a high-performing, competitive, resilient and growing company. Join us, and it can be your future vision too.
Rolls-Royce are committed to being a respectful, inclusive, and non-discriminatory workplace where individuality is valued, diverse perspectives fuel innovation, and everyone can thrive.
Closing date for applications: 17th May 2026
As part of our selection process, candidates in certain locations may be asked to complete an online assessment, which can include cognitive and behavioural aptitude testing relevant to the role. If required, full instructions for the next steps will be provided.
Category Buying Manager (Permanent) in Bristol employer: Rolls-royce
Contact Detail:
Rolls-royce Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Buying Manager (Permanent) in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with current employees at Rolls-Royce. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company culture and values. Rolls-Royce loves innovation and inclusivity, so think about how your experiences align with these themes and be ready to share!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your negotiation skills! Be ready to discuss past experiences where you’ve successfully led negotiations or managed supplier relationships. This is key for the Procurement Category Manager 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 Rolls-Royce team.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Buying Manager (Permanent) in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Procurement Category Manager. Highlight your experience in strategic sourcing and supplier management, and don’t forget to showcase any relevant qualifications like CIPS.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your skills align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Be sure to mention your knack for leading negotiations and driving value.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your commercial acumen and strategic mindset. Use metrics where possible to show how you've made a measurable difference in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rolls-royce
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the role of a Procurement Category Manager. Familiarise yourself with key concepts like Total Cost of Acquisition and category strategy development. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just interested, but also knowledgeable.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations you've led, especially those that resulted in significant commercial value. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses. This will help you articulate your experience clearly and effectively.
✨Understand Their Culture
Research Rolls-Royce's commitment to inclusivity and innovation. Be ready to discuss how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their culture of continuous improvement. This shows that you’re not just a fit for the role, but for the company as a whole.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, current challenges in supplier management, or their digital upskilling initiatives. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.