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- Tasks: Lead a team in developing global sourcing strategies and managing supplier relationships.
- 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 respected, inclusive workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while driving change.
- Qualifications: Degree or CIPS qualifications with experience in procurement and negotiations.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Procurement Category Manager
Full time
Derby/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 part of a function that plays a critical role in our transformation and success. You'll lead a team of buyers, manage senior-level supplier relationships, and deliver integrated sourcing strategies that drive performance across Cost, Quality, and Delivery. This is an exciting opportunity to make a real impact in a role that blends strategic leadership with hands-on procurement excellence.
What you will be doing: In this role, you'll lead a team of buyers and take ownership of developing and deploying global commodity/category 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. You'll blend leadership and hands-on commercial delivery, working closely with colleagues in Supplier Management Teams, Procurement, Engineering and Quality to turn opportunities into results. The role is ideal for someone who enjoys combining data-driven analysis and complex negotiations - all within a fast-moving, high-profile environment.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Developing and maintaining integrated category strategies to ensure long-term supply chain resilience and value creation.
- Leading a team through complex negotiations and business cases, including cost modelling, contract drafting, and stakeholder alignment.
- Taking the lead in developing strong internal stakeholder relationships to enable strong collaboration across your sourcing.
- Negotiating and drafting contracts to support expansion programmes.
- Supporting Make v Buy strategy boards with the appropriate input regarding the external supplier landscape and financial analysis.
- Managing supplier relationships and performance, ensuring appropriate contractual coverage and mitigating commercial risk.
- Supporting supplier consolidation and cost-saving initiatives across critical supply chains which deliver E2E value.
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: 31st 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 in Derby employer: Rolls-royce
Contact Detail:
Rolls-royce Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Buying Manager in Derby
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how your skills align with their goals. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Procurement Category Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate effectively. Role-play with a friend or use online resources to sharpen those skills before the big day.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Buying Manager in Derby
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 procurement and how your skills align with our mission at Rolls-Royce. Be sure to mention specific examples of your past successes.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves leading a team, make sure to highlight your leadership experience. Talk about how you've coached or mentored others and the impact it had on your team's performance.
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, so don’t miss out!
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 category strategy development and supplier management. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the position.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading a team, be prepared to share examples of your leadership experience. Think of specific situations where you successfully managed a team or led negotiations. This will demonstrate your capability to blend strategic leadership with hands-on delivery.
✨Prepare for Complex Scenarios
Expect questions that test your problem-solving skills in complex procurement scenarios. Practice articulating your thought process on how you would handle negotiations or manage supplier relationships. This will highlight your strategic mindset and commercial acumen.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions. Inquire about the company's approach to supplier consolidation or how they measure success in procurement. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.