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- Tasks: Manage strategic packaging categories and lead supplier relationships for a growing company.
- Company: Established packaging supplier with over 50 years in the industry.
- Benefits: Generous bonus, hybrid car, health plan, pension, and 25 days holiday.
- Why this job: Take ownership of international supply chains and drive innovation in procurement.
- Qualifications: Experience in category management and strong negotiation skills required.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic and supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
A brilliant opportunity has come up to work with a fantastic supplier of packaging company that works in the Retail, FMCG, Ecommerce, 3PL Pharma and Automotive industries. The company has been running for 50+ years as a merchant, and they are looking for an experienced Category Manager or senior Supply / Procurement professional who is ready to take full ownership of strategic categories within a growing packaging group.
Salary: £45,000 - £55,000
Location: Stevenage (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 in England employer: Solutions Engineering Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Solutions Engineering Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the packaging industry or related fields. Attend events, webinars, or even local meet-ups to get your name out there and learn about potential opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its competitors. Understand their products and market position, so you can showcase how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in managing international suppliers.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Category Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to manage supplier relationships effectively. Role-play scenarios with friends or mentors to build confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing international suppliers and any hands-on experience you have in procurement or supply chain within the packaging industry.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific examples of how you've driven continuous improvement and managed supplier relationships effectively.
Showcase Your Strategic Mindset: In your application, emphasise your strategic mindset. Talk about how you've developed and executed long-term category strategies in previous roles, especially if they relate to the FMCG or retail sectors.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
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 within those categories. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Supplier Management Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience with international suppliers, especially from the Far East, US, and Europe. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships and navigated challenges in the past. This will highlight your hands-on experience and strategic mindset.
✨Prepare for Commercial Negotiations
Since the role involves leading commercial negotiations, think of specific instances where you’ve negotiated successfully. Be prepared to discuss your approach, the outcomes, and how you ensured compliance with quality standards. This will showcase your negotiation prowess.
✨Align with Company Values and Goals
Research the company’s mission and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. Be ready to articulate how you can contribute to their growth and innovation in the packaging sector. This will help you connect on a deeper level during the interview.
