At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and mentor a team while managing supplier relationships and driving cost efficiencies.
- Company: Join a dynamic manufacturing client in Milton Keynes with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of around £60,000 and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with leadership opportunities and a chance to influence key decisions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by improving supplier performance and ensuring high-quality product supply.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, negotiation skills, and a strategic mindset are essential.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Procurement & Supply Chain division at SF Partners are currently recruiting for an experienced Procurement Category Manager to join their manufacturing client on a full time, permanent basis. This is a senior level Category role, where you will be responsible for leading and mentoring a small team of category assistants.
You will be responsible for executing the product supplier process from end to end, overlooking Quality, Cost and Service whilst mitigating potential risks. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Lead sourcing and category management activities to deliver cost efficiencies, supplier performance improvements and high-quality product supply.
- Analyse supplier performance and market data to identify opportunities for savings, improved service and supply chain resilience.
- Develop strategic relationships with suppliers and act as a key point of contact to influence performance, innovation and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Partner with cross-functional teams to support sourcing plans, resolve supply issues and ensure products are delivered in line with business requirements.
- Drive supplier benchmarking and market intelligence activities to ensure competitive pricing and strong commercial decision-making.
- Maintain effective risk management and contingency plans across the supply base to protect operational continuity.
- Provide leadership and mentoring to the wider procurement team and deputise for the Procurement Director when required.
The successful Category Manager will have experience working in a fast paced demanding environment and a true people leader. You will also have experience in:
- Negotiation - influencing and negotiating final decisions when it comes to pricing, lead times, quality and contractual agreements.
- Knowledge of product portfolio and becoming an expert in your field.
- International sourcing and developing supplier relationships.
- Strategic and tactical thinking and approach.
If you believe you meet the above criteria and wish to progress an application forward, please click 'Apply Now' with a copy of your updated CV.
Category Manager in Milton Keynes employer: SF Partners Admin
At SF Partners, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Milton Keynes that fosters professional growth and collaboration. As a Category Manager, you will not only lead a talented team but also benefit from our commitment to employee development, competitive salary packages, and a culture that values innovation and strategic thinking. Join us to make a meaningful impact in procurement while enjoying the unique advantages of working within a supportive and forward-thinking organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager in Milton Keynes
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the hunt for a Category Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its suppliers. Understand their market position and challenges they face. This will help you showcase your strategic thinking and how you can add value right from the get-go.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Category Manager, you’ll need to influence decisions on pricing and quality. Role-play scenarios with friends or mentors to build confidence and refine your approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager in Milton Keynes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in procurement, supplier management, and team leadership. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use numbers and examples to demonstrate how you’ve improved supplier performance or delivered cost efficiencies in previous roles. This will help us see the impact you've made.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your strategic thinking aligns with our goals at StudySmarter. Keep it concise but impactful!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at SF Partners Admin
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of category management and procurement. Brush up on your knowledge of supplier performance metrics, negotiation tactics, and market trends. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Category Manager, you'll be leading a team, so be prepared to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Think of examples where you've successfully mentored others or led projects. This will demonstrate your capability to manage and inspire a team effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you’ve had to analyse data, negotiate with suppliers, or manage risks. This will help you illustrate your thought process and decision-making abilities.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the company’s current challenges in procurement or how they measure supplier performance. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
