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- Tasks: Develop and deliver category strategies while managing supplier relationships and contract performance.
- Company: Join a collaborative procurement team at Tokio Marine Kiln, a leader in underwriting.
- Benefits: Flexible working, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive environment that champions empowerment and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on procurement outcomes and support diverse talent initiatives.
- Qualifications: CIPS Level 4 qualified or equivalent experience in category management.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We are looking for a Category Specialist to join our centralised Procurement team on a 12-month fixed-term contract supporting the delivery of category strategies, robust supplier management, and strong commercial outcomes across the business. Reporting to the Procurement Manager, this role plays a key part in protecting the organisations’ interests through effective contract management, due diligence, and regulatory compliance, while optimising value through strategic sourcing and stakeholder partnership.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and deliver category strategies aligned to business objectives
- Manage supplier relationships, reviews, SLAs, and contract performance
- Lead end-to-end sourcing activity, including complex commercial negotiations
- Review and approve third-party commercial and outsourcing contracts
- Provide procurement and commercial advice to the business
- Identify cost efficiencies and value-add opportunities
- Ensure compliance with TMK policies and regulatory requirements (FCA, PRA, Lloyd’s)
- Support regulatory requests and operational resilience activity
- Champion company values and responsible procurement practices
Skills & Experience
- CIPS Level 4 qualified (or working towards) or equivalent experience
- Experience in category management or strategic procurement within a complex or multinational environment, especially supporting HR and Professional Services Categories
- Strong commercial and negotiation skills
- Experience with supplier management and outsourcing contracts
- Knowledge of regulatory requirements relating to material outsourcing and operational resilience
- Experience in the use of source to contract systems, specifically Workday / Workday Strategic Sourcing, WSS experience is desirable
- Strong communication skills and ability to influence stakeholders
- Proficient in the use of AI for analysis and general tasks
Why Join Us?
Join a collaborative procurement team with a strong strategic mandate. You’ll work closely with stakeholders across the business, shape category strategies, and play an important role in delivering compliant, value-driven procurement outcomes. The successful candidate will be welcomed into the TMK family to help us further our purpose of enabling our clients to fulfil their ambitions whilst benefiting society and our people. We are committed to ensuring a safe, open, inclusive and empowering environment in which all of our people can thrive.
Category Specialist employer: Tokio Marine Kiln
Contact Detail:
Tokio Marine Kiln Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the procurement field, especially those who work at TMK or similar companies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you an interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching TMK's values and recent projects. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in how you can contribute to our mission and culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since this role involves complex commercial negotiations, being able to demonstrate your approach to negotiation during the interview will set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in category management and procurement. We want to see how your skills align with our needs, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Show Off Your Negotiation Skills: Since strong commercial and negotiation skills are key for this role, give us examples of past experiences where you’ve successfully negotiated contracts or managed supplier relationships. We love a good success story!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your experience and how it relates to the role. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Tokio Marine Kiln
✨Know Your Category Strategies
Before the interview, brush up on category management principles and how they align with business objectives. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've developed or contributed to in the past, especially in HR and Professional Services.
✨Master Supplier Management
Familiarise yourself with effective supplier relationship management techniques. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed supplier performance and contract negotiations, highlighting any cost efficiencies or value-add opportunities you've identified.
✨Understand Regulatory Requirements
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the regulatory requirements relevant to procurement, such as FCA and PRA guidelines. Be prepared to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous roles and how you would approach this at TMK.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since strong communication is key for influencing stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Think of scenarios where you've effectively communicated complex information or negotiated terms, and be ready to share those stories.