Category Manager

Are you an experienced purchasing professional ready to take on a challenging and rewarding role? Our client, a thriving and dynamic organisation, is seeking a Category Manager to join their team based in Doncaster and play a pivotal role in driving their purchasing strategy and ensuring operational excellence.

About the Role

As a Category Manager, you will work within a small but highly effective purchasing team, managing goods and services procurement to the highest standards. This is a diverse and hands-on role that will require a proactive approach to achieving business goals while fostering strong supplier relationships and maintaining compliance with all regulatory and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Sourcing and resourcing of new and existing products and services to meet company requirements.
2. Oversee the tender process, including sourcing, evaluating, and negotiating with suppliers.
3. Working closely with the Supply Chain Manager to resolve any supply chain issues and maintain availability.
4. Continuously evaluate and improve procurement practices, including identifying cost-saving opportunities and process enhancements.
5. Delivery of the company Purchasing strategy.
6. Maintaining/gaining required product accreditations and certifications.
7. Delivery of the Purchasing KPIs.
8. Implement sustainable and socially responsible strategic sourcing practices, including supporting local suppliers and ethical sourcing.
9. Manage supplier relationships, including regular communication, performance evaluation, and issue resolution.
10. Accurate and timely maintenance of the Purchasing database.
11. Prepare and present reports on procurement activities, performance metrics, and cost savings to management.
12. Keep updated on regulatory requirements and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
13. Own the profitability and growth of your categories, collaborating with sales and operations.
14. Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand their requirements and develop procurement plans accordingly.
15. Keep the company updated on market trends and innovations.

Requirements

Key Skills & Attributes:

1. Proven purchasing experience within an international supplier base.
2. Strong negotiation skills with a focus on cost optimisation and budgeting.
3. Expertise in supplier and product compliance management.
4. Proficient in fostering supplier relationships and driving performance improvements.
5. Aware of Environmental and Social Governance (ESG) practices.
6. Highly organised with a proactive, can-do attitude.
7. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
8. Commercially astute with excellent IT literacy (Sage experience desirable).
9. A collaborative team player with the ability to work independently and meet targets.

Benefits

Salary – £50,000
Company-wide bonus scheme
Extra days holiday for birthday
15-minute morning break in addition to lunch break
Modern facilities
Company-wide bonus scheme once probation is passed