Category Specialist

UK Power Networks; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading energy provider in London is seeking a dynamic Category Specialist for Directs Procurement. You will manage procurement portfolios, develop sourcing strategies, and build supplier relationships. The role requires a degree and experience in multi-million pound projects, along with relevant qualifications like CIPS. You will enjoy a competitive salary, a blend of office and remote work, and excellent benefits including a generous pension and health perks.

Benefits

Competitive salary + 7.5% bonus

Blended working (3 days office, 2 days remote)

25 days annual leave + bank holidays

Generous pension (up to 10% employer contribution)

Various tax-efficient benefits

Gym discounts

Qualifications

• Degree-educated with a CIPS qualification or equivalent.
• Experience leading procurement for multi-million pound projects.
• Strong communication skills for influencing stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Support category leads managing procurement portfolios.
• Develop and deliver sourcing strategies for cost savings.
• Manage supplier relationships and oversee contract lifecycles.

Skills

Confident communication

Analytical skills

Project management

Time management

Education

Degree in relevant field

CIPS qualification or equivalent

Tools

SAP

UVDB

Job description

🚀 Category Specialist - Directs Procurement | UK Power Networks | London (Elephant & Castle) 🚀

Are you a dynamic procurement professional ready to make a real impact? Join our award-winning, CIPS Platinum accredited team at UK Power Networks and help deliver a world-class procurement service that drives the net zero transition for all!

What's on offer?

• Competitive salary (based on experience) + 7.5% bonus
• Blended working: 3 days in our vibrant London office, 2 days remote (after probation)
• 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
• Generous pension (up to 10% employer contribution)
• Reservist leave, tenancy loan, season ticket loan
• Tax‑efficient benefits: Cycle to Work, Home & Tech, Green Car Leasing
• Occupational health, employee assistance, gym discounts, and more!

What you'll do:

• Support category leads and manage a portfolio of direct works, services, and materials
• Develop and deliver category sourcing strategies, maximizing value and driving cost savings
• Build strong relationships with partners, suppliers, and contractors
• Champion innovation, continuous improvement, and compliance with governance and legislation
• Play a key role in supplier management, contract lifecycle, and strategic partnerships

What we're looking for:

• Degree‑educated and working towards (or achieved) CIPS or equivalent
• Proven experience leading end‑to‑end procurement for multi‑million pound projects
• Confident communicator who can influence senior stakeholders
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical, project, and time management skills
• IT literate (SAP and UVDB knowledge a plus)

Ready to power up your career with a company committed to being an employer of choice and a trusted corporate citizen? Apply by 07/01/2026 and join us in shaping a sustainable future!