Category Manager

West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA); West Midlands Combined Authority; Hybrid; GBP 43,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

The West Midlands Combined Authority seeks a Category Manager for a 24-month FTC, focusing on end-to-end procurement processes in alignment with strategic category plans. Ideal candidates will possess strong regulated procurement experience, particularly within public sector environments, and be adept at engaging stakeholders while driving compliance and performance in supplier relationships.

Benefits

Up to 28 days annual leave

Health Cash Plan up to £700 per annum

Access to employee assistance program

Discounted gym membership

Pension scheme with up to 12% employer contribution

Employee recognition scheme

Qualifications

• Strong experience in regulated procurement, ideally in public sector or housing.
• Excellent understanding of the Procurement Act 2024.
• Proven track record in managing sourcing lifecycles.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end procurement activity across a diverse portfolio.
• Develop and deliver category strategies.
• Mentor junior colleagues and contribute to procurement maturity.

Skills

Compliance

Supplier Engagement

Stakeholder Management

Strategic Sourcing

Commercial Acumen

Risk Management

Negotiation

Communication

Education

Degree in Procurement or relevant field

CIPS Qualification (preferred)

Job description

West Midlands, West Midlands James Andrews Recruitment

Posted today

Job Description

contract

We are currently partnering with one of the Midlands most reputable housing providers who are looking to appoint a Category Manager on a 24 month FTC, paying up to up to £50,715 per annum.

The role will be mainly home based with occasional travel to Midlands offices.

You'll lead complex, compliant sourcing activities and develop strategic category plans that align with both operational needs and long-term goals. Working closely with senior stakeholders, you'll play a critical role in optimising supplier performance, delivering social value, and embedding best-in-class procurement practices.

Daily duties will include (but not limited to):

Leading end-to-end procurement activity across a diverse portfolio, aligned to the new Procurement Act 2024

Developing and delivering category strategies using structured methodologies

Championing compliant, value-for-money outcomes through competitive tendering and strong supplier engagement

Collaborating with finance and operational teams to ensure budgets, sourcing plans, and contract performance are aligned

Mentoring junior colleagues and contribute to organisation-wide procurement maturity and innovation

Driving performance monitoring, contract handovers, and continuous improvement initiatives

Experience required:

Strong experience in regulated procurement, ideally with exposure to public sector or housing environments

Excellent understanding of the Procurement Act 2024 and public procurement principles

Proven track record in managing sourcing lifecycles, developing category strategies, and influencing senior stakeholders

Commercially astute, with an eye for innovation, risk management, and long-term value

A collaborative, proactive mindset with excellent communication skills

Rewards and Benefits:

• Up to 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) with the opportunity to buy and sell leave
• Family friendly policies
• Access to an employee assistance programme, discounted gym membership and exclusive discounts
• Health Cash Plan worth up to £700 p/a
• Pension scheme with minimum employee contributions of up to 3% and employer of up to 12%
• Employee reward and recognition scheme with wellbeing hub and discount from a wide range of retailers

Working hours:

• Monday - Friday
• 9.00am - 5.00pm

Please note that you require recent experience to apply for this role.

James Andrews is acting as an employment agency and business in relation to this role.

At James Andrews Recruitment Solutions we try to respond to all applications personally, however, due to the high volume of applications this is not always possible. If you have not heard back from us within 72 hours, please assume that your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.

Don't forget our recommendation scheme: Recommend a friend or colleague to us and receive up to 00 each once they have completed 20 days in a role via James Andrews! Terms and conditions apply, contact us for details.

Product Category Manager

Posted 9 days ago

Job Description

permanent

Are you an experienced and driven purchasing professional looking for your next opportunity in a thriving, forward-thinking organisation?

Do you enjoy working in a varied role where you can take full ownership of product categories from sourcing through to launch and ongoing performance?

We have a superb opportunity for a Product Category Manager to join a busy and growing team, working across the A.

Senior Category Manager - HR

CV1 Coventry, West Midlands Morson Talent

Posted 4 days ago

Job Description

contract

Senior Category Manager - HR Services
West Midlands or Derby/ Hybrid 3 days onsite
3 months
Day rate - £(Apply online only) PER DAY INSIDE IR35

Looking to take the lead on high impact procurement strategy? This role offers the chance to shape and deliver strategic category plans across high value HR services spend.

If you have solid procurement experience within indirect procurement working within a regulated environment, please respond with an updated copy of your CV.

Senior Sourcing Category Manager

WV1 Wolverhampton, West Midlands Fortune Brands Innovations

Posted 8 days ago

Job Description

full time

Are you ready to take your career to new heights? Are you eager to make an impact on international supply chains? Do you have a passion for strategic sourcing that can drive excellence in a luxury setting? We are currently looking for a Senior Sourcing Category Manager to join our vibrant team in a Field Based role!

Hours of Work: Full-Time, Flexible

As our Senior Sourcing Category Manager, you will be at the forefront of developing and executing innovative sourcing strategies tailored to our assigned categories. Your role will involve building robust, performance-driven relationships with international suppliers and negotiating complex, high-value contracts to ensure optimal cost, quality, and continuity of supply. You will also proactively identify supply chain risks, streamline cross-functional collaboration with key departments and lead continuous improvement initiatives, all while endorsing our commitment to sustainability and responsible sourcing.

Senior Sourcing Category Manager Requirements:

7+ years’ experience in direct procurement or category management, preferably in a manufacturing or design-led environment.

Strong commercial acumen with advanced negotiation skills.

Proven ability to manage sourcing strategies and supplier relationships across different regions.

Experience in thriving within a complex, matrixed business structure.

Excellent stakeholder engagement skills with a team-first, solutions-oriented mindset.Senior Sourcing Category Manager Benefits:

33 days holiday (inclusive of Bank Holidays)

Life Assurance & Pension Plan

Flexible Working Model

Employee Assistance Programme

High Street Reward Scheme

Eye Care Support for Frequent Screen Users

Refer a Friend Programme

Free Parking

Employee Recognition Programme Meet the Organisation: Who We Are and What We Do

At Fortune Brands, we pride ourselves on being a leader in the home products industry, uniting iconic brands under the House of Rohl name, including Shaws, Perrin & Rowe, and Victoria + Albert. With a commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, we deliver exquisite products that enhance homes worldwide. Our dynamic team of over 600 employees is dedicated to excellence, and as we expand into our new state-of-the-art facility in Wolverhampton, there are more opportunities than ever to thrive in our winning environment.

If you think you are suitable for this Senior Sourcing Category Manager role, please apply now and embark on an exciting career journey with us!

Contract / Category Manager - Birmingham

B1 Birmingham, West Midlands Crimson

Posted 24 days ago

Job Description

contract

Contract Manager - Strategic Vendor Engagement (with De-merger Experience)

Hybrid (Birmingham HQ 1-2 days per week)

(Apply online only) P/D (ASAP start)

Our customer is seeking a Contract Manager to be responsible for overseeing the full contract lifecycle for a varied portfolio of strategic suppliers, including those providing recruitment, HR and reward services, insurance brokerage, procurement support, and employee benefits. The role focuses on delivering commercial value, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining productive supplier relationships-particularly during key organisational changes such as de-mergers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Contract Negotiation & Drafting:
  • Take ownership of negotiating and drafting agreements across HR, recruitment, insurance, and employee benefits categories.
  • Ensure all contracts are compliant with legal standards, commercially effective, and aligned with internal risk and policy frameworks.
• Support During De-mergers & Transitions:
  • Offer expert contractual guidance throughout the planning and delivery of de-mergers or structural changes.
  • Revise existing supplier agreements to reflect changes in business ownership, service delivery, or organisational structure.
  • Contribute to the smooth separation of shared services while maintaining business continuity.
• Cross-Functional Stakeholder Engagement:
  • Collaborate with HR, Legal, Procurement, and Finance teams to define service needs and ensure contract terms meet operational objectives.
• Act as the primary contact for contract-related queries and issues from third-party vendors.
• Foster strong, value-driven relationships with key suppliers to support consistent service quality.
• Contract Governance & Compliance:
  • Implement robust governance frameworks to oversee contract activity, including escalation routes, review processes, and audit documentation.
  • Ensure adherence to applicable procurement laws and regulations, such as PCR 2015.
• Develop and oversee performance metrics such as SLAs and KPIs to evaluate supplier delivery.
• Lead regular performance assessments and champion continuous improvement initiatives.
• Lifecycle & Change Management:
  • Manage the full lifecycle of contracts, from renewal and extension to amendment and termination.
  • Create and maintain structured, easy-to-follow workflows (e.g., swim-lane diagrams) to support change control processes.
• Extensive hands-on experience in managing contracts within HR, recruitment, insurance, and employee benefits categories.
• Strong negotiation skills with a keen understanding of commercial value and risk management.
• Demonstrated ability to support major organisational changes, including de-mergers, restructures, or business separations.
• Solid grasp of public sector procurement processes and relevant contract legislation.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management abilities, with a collaborative approach.
• Well-versed in contract governance and supplier performance monitoring frameworks.

Interested? Please submit your updated CV to Olivia Yafai at Crimson or immediate consideration.

Not interested? Do you know someone who might be a perfect fit for this role? Refer a friend and earn 250 worth of vouchers!

Crimson is acting as an employment agency regarding this vacancy

Senior Category Manager - HR

CV1 2LZ Coventry, West Midlands Morson Talent

Posted today

Job Description

contract

Senior Category Manager - HR Services
West Midlands or Derby/ Hybrid 3 days onsite
3 months
Day rate - £600-700 PER DAY INSIDE IR35

Looking to take the lead on high impact procurement strategy? This role offers the chance to shape and deliver strategic category plans across high value HR services spend.

If you have solid procurement experience within indirect procurement working within a reg.

WHJS1_UKTJ

Senior Sourcing Category Manager

WV9 5FX Wolverhampton, West Midlands Fortune Brands Innovations

Posted 2 days ago

Job Description

permanent

Are you ready to take your career to new heights? Are you eager to make an impact on international supply chains? Do you have a passion for strategic sourcing that can drive excellence in a luxury setting? We are currently looking for a Senior Sourcing Category Manager to join our vibrant team in a Field Based role!

Hours of Work: Full-Time, Flexible

As our Senior Sourcing Category Manager, you will.

WHJS1_UKTJ

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Location

Posted today

Job Description

permanent

Mller UK & Irelandis wholly owned by Unternehmensgruppe Theo Mller which employs over 31,000 people throughout Europe. In the UK, Mller develops, manufactures and markets a wide range of branded and private label dairy products made with milk from 1,300 farmers in Britain.Mller is ranked within the top 20 in The Grocer's Top 100 list of Britain's Biggest Brands and is picked from shelves millions .

Supply Chain Planner

Posted 2 days ago

Job Description

contract

Supply Chain Planner

9-month initial contract

*Applicants MUST have proof of immediate, on-going and valid eligibility to work full time in the UK and travel within the EU.*

About the company

I am currently recruiting on behalf of a Luxury Automotive OEM, based in Gaydon, who are seeking a Supply Chain Planner to join their team

Job Description

As Supply Chain Planner, your main responsibilities are:

• Responsible for long-term supply chain strategies and networks
• Address capacity issues and production location decisions, in support of business goals.
• Supports business execution of new programs and initiatives
• Forecast and coordination, for key events, new product launches and network redesigns.
• Monitors key sales and operations planning performance indicators

Qualifications / Skills needed

• Advanced Supply Chain knowledge
• Managing projects and processes
• Working independently, with limited supervision.
• Coaching and reviewing the work of others.
• Problem solving

Why work through Contechs?

Contechs is a leading Automotive, Design, Engineering, Technology and Innovation Recruitment Consultancy. Founded in 1997, with an inhouse Contractor Care Team to support all external employees, acts as an employment agency for permanent and contract recruitment.

How to Apply

If you're interested in applying for this position, submit your application and one of our recruiters will be in touch.

If you know anyone that is suitable for the role, please visit the below page where we offer up to 600 referral fee: (url removed)>

Supply Chain Manager

B1 Birmingham, West Midlands DMA Group

Posted 2 days ago

Job Description

full time

Supply Chain Manager

Location: United Kingdom (with travel to multiple sites as required)
Industry: Industrial Services & Emergency Response
Reports To: Head of Operations / Director of Supply Chain
Salary: Competitive + Benefits

About the Company:

We are a leading provider of industrial services and emergency response solutions, operating across the UK. Our mission is to deliver high-quality, rapid-response services that protect people, assets, and the environment. As part of our continued growth, we are seeking an experienced Supply Chain Manager to lead and optimise our procurement, logistics, and supplier management processes.

Role Overview:

The Supply Chain Manager will be responsible for developing and managing a resilient and efficient supply chain that supports both routine industrial service operations and rapid-response activities. This role requires someone with a strong background in supply chain operations within high-risk, time-sensitive environments, preferably in industrial or environmental services.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead end-to-end supply chain operations including procurement, inventory, logistics, and vendor management.
• Develop sourcing strategies that ensure availability of critical materials and equipment for planned and emergency projects.
• Manage relationships with suppliers, negotiating contracts and ensuring service-level compliance.
• Implement robust logistics solutions that support nationwide rapid deployment of resources.
• Monitor supply chain KPIs and continuously identify opportunities for cost savings, efficiency, and risk reduction.
• Collaborate closely with operations, project managers, and emergency response teams to ensure supply chain alignment with service delivery goals.
• Ensure compliance with health & safety, environmental, and quality standards across the supply chain.
• Maintain strong oversight of inventory across multiple depots and response units.
• Use ERP and supply chain software to ensure visibility, forecasting, and effective decision-making.

Key Requirements:

• Proven experience (5+ years) as a Supply Chain Manager or similar role in industrial services, emergency response, utilities, or related sectors.
• Strong understanding of procurement, logistics, and inventory control in high-pressure environments.
• Excellent negotiation, supplier management, and contract management skills.
• Knowledge of UK health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Experience with ERP systems and supply chain analytics tools.
• Strong problem-solving, organisational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure, including out-of-hours support in emergency situations.
• Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Engineering, or a related field preferred.
• Full UK driving licence required.
• CIPS qualification or working towards it.
• Experience working with emergency services, MOD contracts, or regulated utilities.
• Familiarity with ISO standards and business continuity planning.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and performance bonus.
• Company vehicle or allowance.
• Pension scheme and private healthcare.
• Opportunities for professional development and certification.
• The chance to make a tangible impact in critical situations across the UK.