Category Manager - (55k - 70k) (Food / FMCG)

VanRath; Belfast; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable recruitment firm is partnering with a major company in Belfast to find a Category Manager. This permanent position involves overseeing procurement and supplier management, with a hybrid work model (80% office, 20% home). Candidates should have at least 4 years of experience, a relevant degree, and strong negotiation skills. The role offers a negotiable salary, excellent benefits including 25 days leave, and opportunities for progression within a dynamic company.

Benefits

Negotiable salary

25 days leave

Progression opportunities

Additional benefits

Qualifications

• 4+ years of procurement and negotiation experience.
• Demonstrated success in sourcing and supplier negotiation.
• Experience managing supplier relationships.

Responsibilities

• Oversee multiple categories, ensuring procurement standards.
• Lead sourcing and procurement strategies.
• Build and manage supplier relationships.

Skills

Procurement expertise

Supplier negotiation

Cost-saving initiatives

Cross-functional collaboration

Advanced Excel skills

Education

Degree in Business, Procurement, Supply Chain, or related

Tools

Nav

Qliksense

Job description

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 (Top Company) + 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.