The Category Manager will develop and deliver end-to-end category strategies across short, medium, and long-term horizons, driving value while managing commercial risk. They provide market insight, lead sourcing activities, and act as the commercial expert, adapting quickly to market changes to secure optimal outcomes. The role also oversees supplier performance and relationships, ensuring continuous improvement and alignment with business objectives while delivering measurable value. We’re growing our team and offering a unique opportunity to be part of our most significant investment programme in over 100 years. What you’ll be doing as a Category Manager Engage proactively with internal stakeholders to shape category approach, business needs, spend and suppliers Be seen by the business as the Procurement /Commercial expert for the category with market knowledge and insight not seen elsewhere Understand the category and provide leadership and insight for the business on all aspects of supply market dynamics, regulatory and internal frameworks, suppliers, and technical innovations Identify and prioritise a sourcing pipeline as part of category development Lead category projects and sourcing events adhering to the required approach Negotiating with suppliers on all commercial and contractual matters and applying judgement as to what constitutes an acceptable level of contractual risk and supply resilience Lead the review of supplier opportunities, innovations, and improvements Develop effective relationships with key functional stakeholders. Leaving a legacy of change and improvement in how Commercial is deployed across the organisation Operate information systems to the required standard to maintain accurate and secure records Ensure timely and accurate reporting on the sourcing projects using available reporting tools Necessary requirements for the role – Occasional site visits We are looking for several Category Managers within Waste Operations, Retail, and Digital What you should bring to the role To thrive in this role, the essential criteria you’ll need is: Great understanding and experience of operating in complex supply chain environments Ability to challenge industry norms and proactively seek out opportunities to deliver sustained improvements in performance. Track record in continuous improvement and ability to deliver against stretching targets. Good understanding of pre and post deal processes and how better information and improvements in process can deliver value to the organisation Experience of working with key suppliers. Ability to analyse data Holistically manage risk Capable of leading complex supplier negotiations up to £100m in value What’s in it for you? Competitive salary of up to £62,000 per annum depending on experience Annual Leave - 26 days holiday per year increasing to 30 with the length of service (plus bank holidays) Performance-related pay plan directly linked to company performance measures and targets Generous Pension Scheme through AON Access to lots of benefits to help you take care of you and your family’s health and wellbeing, and your finances – from annual health MOTs and access to physiotherapy and counselling, to Cycle to Work schemes, shopping vouchers and life assurance Find out more about our benefits and perks (Please note different T
Category Manager employer: Thames Water Utilities Limited
Thames Water Utilities Limited is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the Thames Valley region where you can make a real difference in public health. With a strong commitment to employee development, we provide comprehensive training and growth opportunities, alongside a supportive team culture that values collaboration and innovation. Our flexible shift patterns and focus on community impact make this role not only rewarding but also uniquely fulfilling.
Contact Details:
Thames Water Utilities Limited Recruitment Team
