At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic sourcing for scientific equipment and support world-class research at UCL.
- Company: Join UCL, a leading university committed to innovation and excellence.
- Benefits: 41 days holiday, pension scheme, gym access, and employee support services.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace encouraging applications from underrepresented groups.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on research and innovation in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, and supplier relationship management.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
At UCL, procurement is about far more than purchasing goods and services. It is about enabling world-leading research, supporting academic excellence and helping solve some of society’s biggest challenges. As one of the world's leading universities, UCL invests significantly in cutting-edge scientific equipment, specialist laboratory infrastructure and research environments that support discovery across science, engineering, medicine and technology. Our STEM Commercial team manages approximately £120m of annual expenditure and plays a critical role in ensuring researchers have access to the equipment, services and supplier partnerships they need to deliver exceptional outcomes.
We are transforming the way commercial and procurement services support research, combining commercial excellence, sustainability and innovation to maximise the value of every pound invested. This is an exciting opportunity to join a high-performing team at the centre of that ambition.
About the role
As STEM Category Manager, you will directly influence how UCL invests in its research capability. You will lead strategic sourcing activity across a diverse portfolio of scientific equipment, laboratory infrastructure, specialist services and research-related spend, helping shape the future of research across one of the world's leading universities. You will work closely with senior academics, researchers and professional services colleagues to develop category strategies, lead complex commercial projects and negotiate with specialist suppliers operating in highly technical markets. The role offers significant autonomy and visibility. You will manage high-value procurement activity from strategy through to implementation, using data, market insight and commercial expertise to deliver value, strengthen supplier relationships and support UCL's long-term ambitions. From enabling new laboratory facilities to supporting major research programmes, the impact of your work will be visible across the institution and beyond.
About you
You are a commercially minded procurement professional who enjoys solving complex challenges and influencing meaningful outcomes. You may already be working as a Category Manager, Senior Buyer, Strategic Procurement Manager or Commercial Manager within higher education, healthcare, research, scientific, engineering or other complex environments. Most importantly, you understand how to balance commercial rigour with stakeholder needs and can build credibility with both suppliers and senior decision-makers. You will bring experience of leading strategic sourcing activity, negotiating complex contracts and managing supplier relationships that deliver measurable value. You are comfortable analysing data, developing business cases and translating commercial insight into practical action. You thrive in environments where no two projects are the same, enjoy working with highly engaged stakeholders and are motivated by the opportunity to contribute to something bigger than commercial outcomes alone. If you are looking for a role where your expertise can directly support world-leading research and innovation, we would love to hear from you.
What we offer
As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits:
- 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays and 6 closure days)
- Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme
- Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
- Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
- Relocation scheme for certain posts
- On-site gym
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
- Discounted medical insurance
Visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/rewards-and-benefits to find out more.
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women.
Category Manager - STEM Equipment employer: UK Dementia Research Institute
UCL is an exceptional employer that empowers its employees to make a significant impact on world-leading research and innovation. With a strong commitment to professional development, a collaborative work culture, and generous benefits including 41 days of holiday and a defined benefit pension scheme, UCL fosters an environment where procurement professionals can thrive while contributing to meaningful societal challenges. Located in the heart of London, UCL offers a dynamic workplace that values diversity and inclusion, ensuring that every team member feels valued and supported.
Contact Details:
UK Dementia Research Institute Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager - STEM Equipment
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those at UCL or similar institutions. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about the role and even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into UCL's recent projects and initiatives. Show us you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about contributing to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Category Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate 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 the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager - STEM Equipment
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in strategic sourcing and how it aligns with UCL's mission to support world-leading research.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of how you've influenced procurement outcomes. Use data and metrics to demonstrate your impact, especially in complex environments.
Research UCL and Its Values:Familiarise yourself with UCL’s goals and values. Understanding their commitment to sustainability and innovation will help you articulate how you can contribute to their ambitions in your application.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application is seen by the right people and gives you a chance to explore more about us!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Dementia Research Institute
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the specifics of the STEM equipment and procurement processes. Familiarise yourself with UCL's research priorities and how your role as a Category Manager can impact those. This will show that you're not just interested in the job, but also in contributing to UCL's mission.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations where you've successfully managed supplier relationships or contracts. Be ready to discuss how you balanced commercial needs with stakeholder requirements, as this is crucial for the role. Highlighting your ability to influence outcomes will set you apart.
✨Data is Your Friend
Brush up on your data analysis skills. Be prepared to discuss how you've used data to inform your sourcing strategies or decision-making in previous roles. UCL values data-driven insights, so demonstrating your analytical capabilities will be key.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you would approach working with senior academics and researchers. Prepare to discuss your experience in building relationships and collaborating with diverse teams. Showing that you can effectively communicate and engage with stakeholders will demonstrate your fit for the high-performing team at UCL.
