At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage critical product supply chains and improve supplier performance.
- Company: Join a nationally significant infrastructure organisation with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible working, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with regular travel across the UK and Europe.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by optimising essential operations and driving improvements.
- Qualifications: Experience in category management and strong stakeholder management skills.
The predicted salary is between 46800 - 46800 £ per year.
Location: Flexible UK Location – Hybrid (2 days WFH / 3 days on-site or travel)
Pay Rate: 650 per day via umbrella (Inside IR35)
Contract Length: 12‑month contract (Possible extension)
The Opportunity
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a large, nationally significant infrastructure organisation on a high-impact contract. You’ll step into a key Category Manager role responsible for managing critical product supply chains (e.g. valves, pipes, fittings) that underpin essential operations. This is a role where you can genuinely make a difference – improving supplier performance, unlocking value, and shaping how contracts are managed going forward. There is real scope to put your stamp on the category, with clear opportunities to drive improvements in areas that haven’t been fully optimised before. Regular travel required across the UK and occasionally Europe (typically once every 4 weeks or as required).
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and deliver category strategies for product‑based spend areas
- Lead supplier performance management, including:
- KPI and SLA setting
- Monthly and quarterly performance reviews
- Identify and deliver cost savings and value improvement opportunities
- Manage supplier contracts, ensuring optimal performance and compliance
- Build strong relationships with key stakeholders and present strategies to senior leaders
- Support and lead tendering and framework activities where required
- Monitor market trends and maintain strong engagement with the supplier base
Key Skills & Experience
Essential
- Proven experience as a Category Manager / Procurement Manager
- Strong background in:
- Contract management and supplier performance
- Setting and managing KPIs / SLAs
- Experience conducting supplier reviews (e.g. QBRs, MBRs)
- Excellent stakeholder management skills, including presenting to senior stakeholders
- Background within engineering, manufacturing, or industrial environments
- Solid understanding of procurement processes and tendering
Desirable
- Experience within regulated environments (e.g. utilities, infrastructure)
- CIPS (or working towards)
- Exposure to logistics, expediting, or supply chain operations
We respect and appreciate people of all ethnicities, generations, religious beliefs, sexual orientations, gender identities, and more. We do this by showcasing their talents, skills, and unique experience in an inclusive environment that helps them thrive. If you require reasonable adjustments at any stage, please let us know and we will be happy to support you.
Products Category Manager. Job in Warwick LilyLifestyle Jobs employer: United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
Join a leading infrastructure organisation that values innovation and excellence in procurement. With a flexible hybrid working model, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on critical supply chains while enjoying a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. This role not only offers competitive pay but also the chance to shape strategies and drive improvements in a dynamic environment, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
Contact Details:
United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Products Category Manager. Job in Warwick LilyLifestyle Jobs
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Category Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its supply chain processes. Be ready to discuss how you can improve supplier performance and drive cost savings. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but the one they need!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! You’ll likely need to present strategies to senior leaders, so being able to communicate your ideas clearly and confidently is key. Grab a friend or use a mirror to rehearse.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you stand out, and applying directly shows your commitment. Plus, it’s a great way to keep track of your applications.
We think you need these skills to ace Products Category Manager. Job in Warwick LilyLifestyle Jobs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in contract management and supplier performance, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your skills in managing KPIs and SLAs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your passion for procurement and how you can drive improvements in product supply chains. Don’t forget to mention any relevant experience in engineering or industrial environments!
Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills:We want to see how you’ve built strong relationships with stakeholders in the past. Include examples of how you've presented strategies to senior leaders and managed supplier reviews. This will help us understand your communication style and effectiveness.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
✨Know Your Category Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the specifics of product supply chains, especially in areas like valves and pipes. Familiarise yourself with current market trends and challenges in the industry. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare for Performance Management Questions
Expect questions around KPI and SLA setting, as well as supplier performance management. Be ready to share specific examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed supplier relationships and improved performance. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills
This role requires excellent stakeholder management, so prepare to discuss how you've built strong relationships with key stakeholders in previous roles. Think of instances where you presented strategies to senior leaders and how you navigated any challenges that arose.
✨Demonstrate Your Value-Driven Mindset
The company is looking for someone who can unlock value and drive improvements. Be prepared to discuss how you've identified cost savings or value improvement opportunities in your previous roles. Highlight your proactive approach and any innovative solutions you've implemented.
