At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR & Marketing procurement, shape sourcing strategies, and drive value through innovation.
- Company: Join Sodexo, a global leader in improving Quality of Life with a focus on diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy 20+ benefits including retirement plans, discounts, gym memberships, and 24/7 support.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative team that values your unique contributions and supports your growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while collaborating with senior stakeholders.
- Qualifications: 3-4 years in Buying or Category Management with strong negotiation and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
We’re looking for a driven and commercially astute Category Manager – HR & Marketing to lead key indirect spend categories across the UK & ROI. This is an opportunity to shape sourcing strategy, challenge the status quo, and make a measurable impact across a dynamic, fast-paced business.
In this role, you’ll partner with senior stakeholders, build high-performing supplier strategies, and drive value through smarter procurement, innovation, and sustainable sourcing practices. From negotiating complex agreements to identifying new opportunities for efficiency and growth, you’ll play a central role in shaping the future of our Supply Management function.
If you thrive on ownership, influence, and delivering tangible business impact, this is your chance to step into a highly visible role with real strategic importance.
What you’ll do:
- Manage key indirect categories including Marketing, HR Services, Transport, Relocation and Furniture.
- Increase preferred supplier usage and streamline the supply chain for better value.
- Drive commercial performance and efficiency across UK & ROI.
- Develop and deliver category strategies that improve quality, reduce risk and support business needs.
- Collaborate with global buying teams to implement global category initiatives locally.
- Negotiate regional agreements to secure best pricing and commercial terms.
- Build strong supplier and stakeholder relationships to drive innovation and responsible sourcing.
- Embed SRM processes to ensure supply chain performance meets operational requirements.
- Deliver savings and optimise agreements aligned with business priorities.
What you’ll bring:
- Strong background in Buying, Category Management and Supply Management, with 3/4 years experience.
- Confident operating in a multicultural, matrixed environment, managing multiple stakeholders.
- Proven track record in contract negotiation and delivering strong commercial outcomes.
- Excellent written and verbal presentation skills, able to communicate clearly and persuasively.
- Collaborative team player with strong communication and influencing abilities.
- Experienced in managing complex stakeholder relationships at all levels of the business.
- Able to build and maintain strong internal and external relationships with ease.
- Highly organised, methodical and self‑motivated, able to work independently or as part of a team.
- Strong prioritisation skills, with the ability to anticipate workload demands and respond to urgent business needs.
- Financially astute and results‑driven, able to present data and outcomes in a clear, structured way.
Joining this segment means becoming part of a collaborative, solutions‑focused environment where your work directly contributes to the success of our people, our clients and the communities we serve. Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of something greater.
You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way.
In addition, we offer 20+ Sodexo benefits such as Sodexo retirement plan, discounts to over 1,900 brands to shop online, Gym discount to maintain a healthy lifestyle, a confidential 24/7 employee assistance programme providing independent support to overcome whenever life has its obstacles including emotional support, legal and financial advice.
Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today!
Remote Category Manager – HR & Marketing Procurement in Stevenage employer: Sodexo
Sodexo is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture, where your contributions directly impact the success of our teams and the communities we serve. With over 20 unique benefits, including a comprehensive retirement plan and wellness discounts, employees are supported in both their professional and personal lives. This remote role offers the flexibility to thrive while engaging with diverse stakeholders across the UK and ROI, making it a rewarding opportunity for those looking to make a meaningful difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Remote Category Manager – HR & Marketing Procurement in Stevenage
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who work at Sodexo or similar companies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info on the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the company culture and values. Show how your experience aligns with their mission of creating a better everyday for everyone. We want to see that you're not just a fit for the role, but for the team too!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Category Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate effectively. Role-play scenarios with a friend 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 noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Sodexo.
We think you need these skills to ace Remote Category Manager – HR & Marketing Procurement in Stevenage
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in HR and Marketing procurement, and show us how you can drive value through smarter sourcing strategies.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; we want to see your impact! Use specific examples of how you've negotiated contracts or improved supplier relationships to demonstrate your commercial acumen.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate a well-organised application that’s easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with Sodexo!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sodexo
✨Know Your Categories Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the key indirect categories you'll be managing, like HR Services and Marketing. Understand current trends, challenges, and opportunities in these areas. This will not only show your expertise but also your genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Scenarios
Think about how you would approach building relationships with senior stakeholders. Prepare examples of past experiences where you've successfully managed complex stakeholder relationships. This will demonstrate your collaborative skills and ability to influence others.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Be ready to discuss specific instances where you've negotiated contracts or agreements. Highlight the outcomes and how they benefited your previous employers. This will illustrate your commercial acumen and ability to drive value through procurement.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and persuasively. Since excellent communication is key in this role, consider doing mock interviews with a friend or using video recordings to refine your delivery. This will help you feel more confident during the actual interview.
