Category Manager

Procurement Heads; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A professional services firm is looking for a Procurement Category Manager to shape procurement strategies in a greenfield environment. This role involves leading the development of procurement frameworks, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring sustainability in the supply chain. The ideal candidate will have demonstrable procurement experience and excellent stakeholder management skills. Competitive salary and extensive benefits are offered, including flexible working options and professional development support.

Benefits

Competitive Salary

Private Medical Insurance

Life Assurance

Matched Pension Scheme

Flexible and Hybrid Working Options

Cycle to Work Scheme

Qualifications

• Demonstrable experience in procurement within a greenfield or transformation environment.
• Strong understanding of sustainable procurement and supply chain collaboration.
• Self-motivated with the ability to take ownership of targets and initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Lead the creation of category strategies and procurement frameworks.
• Champion sustainability across the supply chain.
• Conduct supplier due diligence and risk mitigation for high-value contracts.

Skills

Stakeholder management

Sustainable procurement

Commercial acumen

Communication skills

Supplier evaluation

Job description

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Procurement Category Manager to join a newly established procurement function within a global professional services environment. This is a greenfield site, offering the chance to shape the future of procurement from the ground up, developing category strategies, designing ways of working, and embedding sustainability into every aspect of the supply chain.,

Responsibilities

• Lead the creation of category strategies and procurement frameworks, establishing best practice from inception
• Design and implement governance and operational processes to support a high-performing procurement function
• Provide expert guidance across the full procurement lifecycle, including market analysis, tendering, supplier evaluation, and contract negotiation
• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to deliver innovative and fit-for-purpose sourcing solutions
• Champion sustainability across the supply chain, with a particular focus on reducing Scope 3 emissions and aligning with ESG goals
• Manage supplier engagement programmes to ensure compliance with ethical standards and drive environmental improvements
• Support the development of global procurement policies and contribute to continuous improvement in reporting, spend tracking, and supplier performance
• Deliver training and guidance on procurement and contract management across the organisation
• Conduct supplier due diligence and risk mitigation for high-value and high-risk contracts
• Act as a trusted advisor, fostering a culture of commercial awareness and continuous improvement

Qualifications

• Demonstrable experience in procurement within a greenfield or transformation environment
• Proven ability to design and implement procurement frameworks and governance structures
• Strong understanding of sustainable procurement and supply chain collaboration to reduce environmental impact
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to influence at all levels
• Commercial acumen and experience managing complex, high-value contracts
• Familiarity with ESG reporting and supplier performance metrics
• Knowledge of ISO and BSI standards is advantageous
• Self-motivated with the ability to take ownership of targets and initiatives

Benefits

• Competitive Salary
• Private Medical Insurance with mental health, fertility, and cancer support
• Life Assurance (4x salary) and Income Protection
• Matched Pension Scheme (up to 6%)
• 25 Days Annual Leave plus a dedicated Wellbeing Day
• £250 Wellbeing Allowance and Eyecare Scheme
• Flexible and Hybrid Working Options
• Electric Vehicle Leasing Scheme
• Cycle to Work Scheme and Season Ticket Loans
• Recognition Awards (up to £5,000) for outstanding contributions
• Volunteering Hours and Professional Development Support
• Employee Assistance Programme, Mindfulness App Subscription, and Life Stage Support App
• Enhanced Family Leave Policies including maternity, co-parent, and fertility support