At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage multiple categories, drive procurement strategies, and build strong supplier relationships.
- Company: Dynamic company in Belfast with a fantastic reputation and work environment.
- Benefits: Negotiable salary, hybrid working, 25 days leave, and excellent career progression.
- Other info: Supportive culture with opportunities for mentorship and continuous development.
- Why this job: Join a growing team and make an impact through strategic sourcing and innovation.
- Qualifications: Degree in Business or related field, plus 4 years of procurement experience.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 70000 € per year.
VANRATH are delighted to be partnering with a major company in Northern Ireland with the recruitment of a Category Manager to join a growing and dynamic company based in Belfast. This position is based in the company's Belfast office. Monday - Friday position. Hybrid working is available (80% in the office / 20% at home). This is a permanent position. This company has an excellent reputation. Salary negotiable + other additional benefits + fantastic work benefits and environment + holiday package (25 days leave + stats) & progression opportunities.
Overview: As a Category Manager, you will oversee and manage multiple categories, driving cost-effective procurement of goods and services while upholding high standards of quality, compliance, and supplier performance.
Responsibilities:
- Partner with stakeholders to understand category needs and ensure effective service delivery.
- Lead sourcing, tendering, and procurement strategies aligned with business goals and sustainability standards.
- Build strong supplier relationships, managing performance, contracts, and disputes.
- Drive cost savings, efficiency, and innovation through strategic sourcing and improvement projects.
- Monitor markets, assess risks, and implement contingency and sustainability initiatives.
- Use procurement tools (e.g., Nav, Qliksense) to enable data-driven decisions.
- Ensure compliance with Health & Safety regulations and promote a safe workplace.
- Support and mentor team members, pursue continuous development, and maintain flexibility for travel and changing business needs.
Requirements:
- Degree-level education in Business, Procurement, Supply Chain, or related discipline, or equivalent work experience.
- Minimum 4 years of proven procurement and negotiation experience in a similar role.
- Demonstrable success in sourcing, supplier negotiation, and cost-saving initiatives.
- Experience in managing supplier relationships and contract performance.
- Track record of working cross-functionally with internal stakeholders.
- Strong understanding of procurement best practices and supply chain management.
Desired criteria:
- CIPS qualification (MCIPS) or actively working towards it.
- Experience managing a small team or mentoring junior staff.
- Familiarity with sustainability reporting standards or carbon reduction frameworks.
- Project management skills (e.g. Prince2 or Agile methodologies).
- Advanced Excel or data analysis skills for reporting and insight generation.
For more information on this role please reach out to Jack Groves @ VANRATH for more information.
Category Manager - (55k - 70k) (Purchasing) in Belfast employer: VANRATH
Join a leading company in Belfast that values its employees and fosters a dynamic work environment. With a strong emphasis on professional growth, this role offers excellent benefits including a competitive salary, generous holiday package, and the flexibility of hybrid working. The company is committed to sustainability and innovation, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager - (55k - 70k) (Purchasing) in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry and let them know you're on the hunt for a Category Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its procurement strategies. Show them you understand their needs and how you can drive cost-effective solutions while maintaining quality. Tailor your answers to highlight your experience in supplier negotiation and relationship management.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that dream job! We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience directly to employers looking for top talent like you.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager - (55k - 70k) (Purchasing) in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your procurement experience, supplier negotiation skills, and any relevant achievements that align with the job description. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
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 position. Share specific examples of your past successes in procurement and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to mention your familiarity with procurement tools like Nav and Qliksense. If you have advanced Excel skills or project management experience, make sure to highlight these as they’re key for the role. We love data-driven decision-makers!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Let’s get started on this journey together!
How to prepare for a job interview at VANRATH
✨Know Your Categories
Before the interview, dive deep into the categories you'll be managing. Understand the market trends, key suppliers, and any recent changes in procurement practices. This will show your potential employer that you're not just familiar with the role but also passionate about making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare specific examples of successful negotiations you've led in the past. Highlight how you achieved cost savings or improved supplier relationships. This is crucial for a Category Manager role, so make sure to articulate your strategies clearly.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Since this role involves working cross-functionally, be ready to discuss how you've collaborated with different teams in previous positions. Share stories that demonstrate your ability to partner with stakeholders and mentor team members effectively.
✨Be Data-Driven
Familiarise yourself with procurement tools like Nav and Qliksense, as well as advanced Excel skills. Be prepared to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in your past roles. This will highlight your analytical capabilities and align with the company's focus on data-driven procurement.
