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- Tasks: Lead global events strategy, manage supplier partnerships, and ensure compliance.
- Company: Smith+Nephew designs tech that enhances lives, committed to innovation and excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous bonuses, health plans, and discounts on fitness.
- Why this job: Shape impactful global events while driving sustainability and innovation in a diverse culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, strong negotiation skills, and knowledge of the events market required.
- Other info: Join a community focused on inclusion, diversity, and employee wellbeing.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Life Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew, we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living.
We’re hiring a Global Category Manager – Meetings & Events Services, a pivotal role that sits at the intersection of strategy, innovation, and stakeholder engagement. This is your opportunity to lead the transformation of how we plan, source, and deliver world-class events across the globe.
In this role, you’ll take ownership of a global spend portfolio, developing and executing procurement strategies that drive value, ensure compliance, and elevate the quality of our events. You’ll work closely with senior stakeholders in Marketing, Medical Education, and Commercial teams, aligning procurement goals with business priorities and ensuring our events reflect the excellence of our brand.
It’s about creating smarter, more sustainable, and more impactful experiences. You’ll shape global policy, lead supplier partnerships, and bring innovation to the forefront of our Meetings & Events strategy. From venue sourcing and event management to risk mitigation and supplier performance, you’ll be the strategic force behind this category.
What you will be doing?
- Support the creation of the M&E policy and contribute to the global category strategy for Meetings & Events.
- Manage stakeholder engagement and lead sourcing initiatives for services including event management, tradeshows, and venue bookings.
- Oversee supplier segmentation, selection, performance tracking, and contract negotiation.
- Deliver on cost savings, risk mitigation, and innovation through supplier partnerships.
- Monitor and ensure compliance with procurement policies and contract standards.
- Track supplier performance and resolve risk or quality issues in a timely manner.
- Contribute to planning activities and project execution aligned with strategic goals.
- Work closely with Travel and other category managers to explore alignment opportunities.
What will you need to be successful?
Your background will include hands-on procurement experience, particularly within services or marketing categories, where you’ve demonstrated your ability to drive value through strategic sourcing and supplier management.
You’ll be confident navigating complex, global environments, with a proven ability to influence stakeholders and negotiate contracts effectively. A deep understanding of the Meetings & Events supply market, combined with strong analytical, communication, and project management skills, will be key to your success.
You. Unlimited
We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our strongest investments are in our people and the patients we serve.
- Inclusion, Diversity and Equity: Committed to welcoming, celebrating, and thriving on diversity. Learn more about Employee Inclusion Groups on our website (https://www.smith-nephew.com/).
- Your Future: Generous annual bonus and pension schemes, Save As You Earn share options, and a car allowance.
- Work/Life Balance: Flexible vacation and time off, paid holidays, and paid volunteering hours to give back to our communities.
- Your Wellbeing: Private health and dental plans, healthcare cash plans, income protection, life assurance, and more.
- Flexibility: Hybrid working model (for most professional roles).
- Training: Hands-on, team-customized mentorship programs.
- Extra Perks: Discounts on gyms and fitness clubs, salary sacrifice bicycle and car schemes, and other employee discounts.
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We\’re more than just a company — we\’re a community! Follow us on LinkedIn to see how we support and empower our employees and patients every day.
Check our Glassdoor page for behind-the-scenes insights and a glimpse into You. Unlimited. life, culture, and benefits at S+N.
Explore our new website to learn more about our mission, our team, and the opportunities we offer.
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Global Category Manager, Meetings & Events Services employer: Smith & Nephew
Contact Detail:
Smith & Nephew Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Global Category Manager, Meetings & Events Services
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in the Meetings & Events industry. Understanding current innovations and best practices will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the procurement and events management sectors. Attend industry conferences or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the challenges they face, which can give you valuable insights.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships and driven cost savings in previous roles. Being able to articulate your achievements will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Smith+Nephew's values and recent initiatives in sustainability and innovation. Tailoring your conversation to align with their mission will show that you're not just interested in the job, but also in contributing to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Global Category Manager, Meetings & Events Services
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Global Category Manager position. Familiarise yourself with procurement strategies, stakeholder engagement, and the Meetings & Events supply market.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement, particularly within services or marketing categories. Emphasise your ability to drive value through strategic sourcing and supplier management, as well as your skills in negotiation and stakeholder influence.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that connects your background and skills to the specific needs of Smith+Nephew. Discuss how your experience aligns with their goals for transforming event planning and sourcing, and express your enthusiasm for contributing to their mission.
Showcase Your Achievements: In both your CV and cover letter, include specific examples of past achievements that demonstrate your success in managing supplier relationships, delivering cost savings, and implementing innovative solutions in previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Smith & Nephew
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the Global Category Manager position and its responsibilities. Familiarise yourself with the key aspects of procurement strategies, stakeholder engagement, and event management to demonstrate your knowledge during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your hands-on procurement experience, particularly in services or marketing categories. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully driven value through strategic sourcing and supplier management, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Engagement Skills
Since the role involves working closely with senior stakeholders, be ready to share examples of how you've influenced stakeholders in previous roles. Discuss your negotiation skills and how you've navigated complex environments to achieve successful outcomes.
✨Align with Company Values
Smith+Nephew values inclusion, diversity, and community. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their mission of creating the greatest good for society. This will show that you're not just a fit for the role, but also for the company culture.
