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- Tasks: Manage packaging categories and develop long-term strategies for international suppliers.
- Company: Dynamic company in Birmingham with a focus on innovation and growth.
- Benefits: Generous bonuses, hybrid car, health plans, 25 days holiday, and pension.
- Why this job: Shape procurement processes and drive innovation while collaborating with global suppliers.
- Qualifications: Experience in category management and strong negotiation skills required.
- Other info: Great opportunity for career advancement in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Salary: £45,000 - £55,000
Location – Birmingham (Surrounding Areas)
Benefits: Generous bonus scheme | Hybrid company car | Fuel card | Life & Health Cash Plan | 5% Pension | 25 days holiday + bank holidays
The business is particularly keen to speak with individuals who have hands-on experience managing international supply chains and overseas suppliers, especially across the Far East, US and Europe.
The Role
- Own and manage assigned packaging categories, developing and executing long-term category strategies.
- Lead supplier selection, performance management, and commercial negotiations at a senior level.
- Manage and develop international supplier relationships, with a strong focus on overseas sourcing.
- Ensure all products and materials meet quality and regulatory standards.
- Work closely with sales, operations, and technical teams to align category strategy with customer demand.
- Identify and mitigate supply and commercial risk while controlling cost and availability.
- Drive continuous improvement, innovation, and cost-saving initiatives within categories.
- Play a key role in shaping procurement and category management processes across the group.
- Support business growth through effective range management and supplier collaboration.
About You
- Proven experience in category management, procurement, or supply chain within packaging or similar industry.
- Strong strategic mindset with the ability to remain commercially hands-on.
- Experience managing international suppliers, particularly in the Far East, US and EU.
- Highly commercial with strong negotiation and supplier relationship skills.
- Solid understanding of quality and supplier compliance requirements.
- Proactive, confident, and able to influence stakeholders across the business.
- Experience working with ERP / MRP systems.
- Candidates stepping up into a Category Manager role with strong international exposure will also be considered.
If you are interested in applying for this opportunity or wish to receive further information, please contact Sean Turton.
Category Manager employer: Solutions Engineering Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Solutions Engineering Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that Category Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its supply chain strategies. We want to see you shine, so come armed with examples of how you've managed international suppliers and driven cost-saving initiatives.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your negotiation skills! During interviews, be ready to discuss past experiences where you’ve successfully negotiated with suppliers. We love hearing about those win-win situations!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for candidates who are proactive and passionate about category management.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in category management and international supply chains. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the Category Manager role. We love seeing enthusiasm and a clear understanding of our business needs.
Showcase Your Negotiation Skills: Since this role involves a lot of supplier negotiations, make sure to include examples of your past successes in this area. We want to know how you’ve influenced stakeholders and driven results!
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 the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Solutions Engineering Recruitment
✨Know Your Categories Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the specific packaging categories you'll be managing. Understand the trends, challenges, and opportunities in those areas. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Supplier Management Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed international suppliers, especially from the Far East, US, and Europe. Highlight your negotiation tactics and how you’ve built strong relationships. This is crucial for the role, so make it a focal point in your discussion.
✨Align with Business Goals
Research the company’s overall strategy and how the category management role fits into it. Be ready to discuss how you can support business growth through effective range management and supplier collaboration. This shows that you’re not just thinking about the role, but also about the bigger picture.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, especially around supply chain risks and compliance issues. Think of scenarios where you identified risks and implemented solutions. Practising these responses will help you feel more confident during the interview.
