Category Manager

Morson Human Resources Limited; Stevenage; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Morson is partnering with a UK defence manufacturer to recruit a Category Manager for the Stevenage site. The role is a 6-month contract with potential extension, offering hybrid working and a UK travel element.

You will lead procurement and sourcing for Mechanical Structures, manage RFx events, onboard suppliers and support ramp-up activities while driving cost-saving and risk-mitigation initiatives. Strong communication, CIPS qualification or equivalent experience, and a track record in RFx

Qualifications

• Proven ability to collaborate within teams and lead complex procurement discussions.
• CIPS qualification or equivalent professional experience.
• Experience managing complex RFx processes.
• Strong understanding of product lifecycle phases (NPI to Legacy/Sustainment).
• Ability to analyse open-book cost models and drive TCO reductions.

Responsibilities

• Lead sourcing activities aligned with category strategies and policies.
• Support initiatives to expand and strengthen the supply chain network.
• Conduct spend analysis, segmentation, forecasting and market assessment.
• Utilise procurement tools such as Kraljic and Porter’s models.
• Present sourcing outcomes to senior stakeholders with risk mitigation.
• Co-lead supplier development with cross-functional teams.

Skills

Procurement leadership

RFx management

CIPS qualification

Cost modelling

NPI ramp-up

TCO analysis

Education

CIPS qualification or equivalent experience

Tools

Kraljic model

Porter’s models

Job description

Morson is partnering with one of the UK’s leading defence manufacturers to recruit a Category Manager to join their team at the Stevenage site.

• 6-month contract (with potential for extension)
• £58.00 - £62.00 per hour (Umbrella)
• Hybrid working
• Some national travel required
• BPSS eligible

Role Purpose

To lead and support procurement and sourcing activities within the Mechanical Structures domain, acting as the primary contact for multiple RFx events. Working closely with the Category Manager, Supply Chain Manager, and key stakeholders, you will drive procurement excellence by onboarding new suppliers to future-proof the supply chain and support current ramp-up efforts.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead sourcing activities aligned with category and domain strategies, ensuring compliance with procurement best practises and organisational policies.
• Support initiatives to expand and strengthen the supply chain network.
• Conduct essential research, including spend analysis, segmentation, forecasting, and market assessment.
• Utilise procurement tools proficiently, such as Kraljic and Porter’s models.
• Present sourcing outcomes to senior stakeholders, justifying decisions and demonstrating effective risk mitigation.
• Co-lead supplier development activities alongside Supply Chain Managers, complementing technical expertise with commercial leadership.

Contract Development & Negotiations

• Possess a thorough understanding of English contract law.
• Interpret commercial discussions with suppliers to secure the best possible outcomes.
• Draught and implement tailored commercial agreements suitable for each situation.
• Lead the development and execution of negotiation strategies.
• Identify and deliver planned cost-saving initiatives.

Risk Management

• Identify and assess supplier risks in accordance with company processes and procedures.
• Develop and present risk mitigation plans to gain support from stakeholders across the business.
• Manage supplier onboarding, ensuring a seamless transition from existing to new suppliers in collaboration with the Multi-Functional Team.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within Procurement Transversal.

Required Skills and Experience

• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within teams and lead complex procurement discussions.
• CIPS qualification or equivalent professional experience.
• Experience managing complex RFx processes.
• Strong understanding of product lifecycle phases, including NPI, Low-Rate Initial Production, Full-Rate Ramp-Up, and Legacy/Sustainment stages.
• Competence in analysing open-book cost models, machine/load-centre rates, and buy-to-fly ratios to drive Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) reductions.