At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies and manage supplier relationships to ensure quality and value.
- Company: Join Müller, a beloved brand making quality products for millions.
- Benefits: Enjoy a company car, pension plan, life assurance, and generous leave.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a collaborative environment while shaping procurement processes.
- Qualifications: Master’s degree or equivalent experience in procurement and category management.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Market Drayton – 3 days onsite, 2 days remote
Function: Procurement
At Müller, we’re proud to make great products that are loved by millions. To help us continue delivering quality, value and innovation across our supply chain, we’re looking for a Category Manager to join our Procurement team. This is an opportunity to take ownership of a defined area of spend, develop robust category strategies and work closely with stakeholders across our business to deliver long‑term value.
What you’ll be responsible for:
- Business Partnering & Stakeholder Engagement
- Ensure continuity of supply and adherence to quality standards.
- Build strong working relationships with Business Units, providing insight, challenge and clear recommendations.
- Support budget planning and forecasting with accurate and timely category data.
- Present market insights to enable effective decision‑making and operational planning.
- Represent Group Procurement Packaging in BU meetings and support decision making.
- Act as an escalation point for supply or quality challenges.
- Analyse procurement markets to identify risks, opportunities and strategic priorities.
- Lead tenders, cost analysis and negotiation activity to secure the best commercial outcomes.
- Develop and implement category strategies aligned with both Business Units and Group functions.
- Support new product launches by ensuring the right suppliers, contracts and materials are in place.
- Ensure compliance with procurement policies and processes.
- Manage categories with an annual spend of approximately €50 million.
- Support other Group Category Managers in projects in the UK as required.
- Identify, evaluate and qualify suppliers with relevant internal partners.
- Drive supplier performance through proactive management and structured performance reviews.
- Lead contract creation and management, ensuring clear KPIs and service levels.
- Support continuous improvement through the Balanced Supplier Scorecard and supplier development initiatives.
- Use category expertise to identify innovation and improvement opportunities.
- Deliver measurable value creation through market intelligence and supplier collaboration.
- Support process and system improvements across the Procurement function.
What you’ll need:
- Master’s degree or equivalent experience.
- Strong understanding of procurement processes and category management principles.
- Experience managing medium‑scale spend profiles within a complex organisation.
- Ability to build relationships, influence stakeholders and present with confidence.
- Strong analytical skills with a strategic, solutions‑focused mindset.
You’ll be part of a Procurement team that plays a key role in shaping how Müller sources materials, services and innovation across the Group. We offer a collaborative environment, opportunities for development and the chance to make a real impact on the performance of a business that millions of households rely on every day.
What you’ll receive:
- Company car
- Contributory pension plan
- Life assurance
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Generous annual leave increasing with service.
In addition, our employees have access to a Rewards Benefits Programme, giving you a range of discounts across 800 retailers online and in store.
Category Manager - Packaging employer: Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller
Contact Detail:
Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager - Packaging
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Müller and understanding their procurement processes. Show us you know your stuff and can bring value to the team right from the get-go!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Category Manager. We want to hear how you can tackle challenges and drive supplier performance.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager - Packaging
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in procurement and category management, and don’t forget to showcase any relevant achievements that align with what we’re looking for.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this role at Müller. Mention specific examples of how you've built relationships and influenced stakeholders in your previous roles.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills: Since strong analytical skills are key for this position, make sure to include examples of how you've used data to drive decisions or improve processes. We love seeing how you can turn insights into action!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller
✨Know Your Category Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the packaging category. Understand current market trends, key suppliers, and potential risks. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're ready to take ownership of the spend area.
✨Build Relationships in Your Mind
Think about how you would engage with stakeholders across the business. Prepare examples of how you've built strong working relationships in the past. This will showcase your ability to partner effectively and influence decision-making.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive procurement decisions. Bring examples of how you've analysed spend profiles or market insights to create value. This will highlight your strategic mindset and problem-solving abilities.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about handling supply challenges or leading negotiations. Think through scenarios where you've successfully navigated similar situations. This will help you articulate your approach and demonstrate your capability in managing complex procurement processes.