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- Tasks: Lead the development of innovative category strategies and drive procurement excellence.
- Company: Join a renowned retail brand undergoing an exciting transformation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, pension, and hybrid working model.
- Why this job: Shape the future of procurement while influencing technology strategy at a senior level.
- Qualifications: Experience in category management and strong negotiation skills required.
- Other info: Opportunity for significant career growth and impact within a major retail organisation.
The predicted salary is between 64000 - 85000 £ per year.
£80,000 - £85,000 + 25% Bonus, Pension | Berkshire (Hybrid: 3 days per week onsite)
Talent Drive are delighted to be partnering with a household-name retail brand to appoint a Category Manager – Store Design and Development joining the business at a pivotal point in their large-scale transformation journey. This is an exciting opportunity to shape and deliver this category strategy within a forward-thinking procurement function working directly with the Group Director of procurement.
Key responsibilities of the role:
- Developing and executing a comprehensive, multi-year category plan, aligned with business goals, market dynamics, and internal demand, to ensure optimal performance, cost savings, and risk.
- Lead the creation and implementation of sourcing and negotiation strategies that align with business objectives and market dynamics.
- Identify, assess and manage supplier risk, and the risk associated with the supply of goods and services in your category area, as part of the category plan.
- Drive continuous improvement, innovation, and sustainability beyond cost — influencing how technology procurement adds strategic value.
- Act as a change leader, embedding new systems, tools, and ways of working across the procurement and technology functions.
To be successful, you’ll bring:
- Proven experience developing and executing category strategies in large, complex organisations.
- Expert knowledge of financial and legal contract negotiations; carry strong awareness of ethical sourcing and corporate social responsibility issues.
- A track record of leading complex, high-value negotiations that deliver sustainable value and commercial advantage.
- Evidence of driving cost savings and broader value creation through strategic sourcing.
- Experience working in retail or within a major transformation programme is advantageous.
This is a rare opportunity to step into a senior procurement role with direct influence over technology strategy — partnering with C-suite stakeholders and shaping the future of procurement excellence within a major retail organisation.
For more email your CV to
Category Manager - Store Design and Development in Reading employer: Talent Drive | B Corp™
Contact Detail:
Talent Drive | B Corp™ Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager - Store Design and Development in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its recent projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their transformation journey and how you can contribute to it.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Category Manager, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to lead complex negotiations. Role-play with a friend or use online resources to sharpen those skills before the big day.
✨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 take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager - Store Design and Development in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in developing category strategies and leading negotiations, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your achievements in similar roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share your passion for retail and procurement, and how your skills align with our goals. Don’t forget to mention any experience with transformation programmes!
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on quantifiable achievements. We love numbers! Whether it’s cost savings or successful project completions, make sure to include metrics that demonstrate your impact in previous roles.
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. Plus, it shows us you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Talent Drive | B Corp™
✨Know Your Category Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the specifics of store design and development. Familiarise yourself with current trends, challenges, and innovations in the retail sector. This will not only show your passion but also demonstrate that you’re ready to contribute to the company's transformation journey.
✨Prepare for Negotiation Scenarios
Given the importance of negotiation in this role, think about past experiences where you've successfully negotiated contracts or managed supplier relationships. Be ready to discuss your strategies and outcomes, as this will highlight your expertise in financial and legal aspects of procurement.
✨Showcase Your Change Leadership Skills
This position requires acting as a change leader, so come prepared with examples of how you've led teams through transitions or implemented new systems. Discuss the impact of your leadership on previous projects, especially in terms of driving continuous improvement and innovation.
✨Align with Company Values
Research the company’s values, particularly around ethical sourcing and corporate social responsibility. Be ready to articulate how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their sustainability goals while delivering cost savings.
