Category Specialist - Purchasing

Working Solutions Recruitment; Northampton; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is looking for an experienced Category Specialist to join a global manufacturing client in Wellingborough. The successful candidate will oversee procurement activities, develop sourcing strategies, and negotiate supplier contracts to ensure high-quality materials. Requirements include HND qualification and significant procurement experience. Competitive salary of £38-£40K and benefits package offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits package

Qualifications

• Significant experience in materials control, procurement, or supply chain management.
• Strong understanding of material planning systems.
• Highly organised and effective under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Manage procurement activities across assigned categories.
• Develop and execute sourcing strategies to optimise cost, quality, and delivery.
• Negotiate supplier agreements to secure the best outcomes.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Stakeholder management

Detail-oriented

Communication skills

Education

HND or equivalent qualification

Tools

MRP systems

Oracle or similar ERP systems

Job description

WSR are looking for a Category Specialist to join the team of our esteemed client based in Wellingborough.

Location: Wellingborough, UK

Hours of Work: Monday-Thursday 08:00-16:30 | Friday 08:00-13:30

Department: Procurement & Materials

Salary £38-£40K

Travel: Occasional, in line with business requirements

About the Opportunity

Our client, a global leader in the manufacturing and engineering sector, is seeking an experienced Category Specialist to join their procurement and materials team based in Wellingborough. This is an excellent opportunity to join a world‑class organisation known for innovation, product quality, and operational excellence. The business operates on a foundation of integrity, collaboration, and continuous improvement, offering a supportive environment where individuals can contribute meaningfully to the company's success.

Role Overview

The Category Specialist will play a key role in the strategic sourcing and procurement of goods and services essential to the organisation's operations. This position is responsible for implementing category strategies, negotiating supplier contracts, and ensuring the delivery of cost‑effective, timely, and high‑quality materials. The successful candidate will demonstrate a strong commercial mindset, excellent analytical ability, and a proactive approach to supplier and stakeholder management.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage procurement activities across assigned categories to meet business objectives.
• Develop and execute sourcing strategies to optimise cost, quality, and delivery performance.
• Negotiate supplier agreements and contracts to secure the best commercial outcomes.
• Conduct market analysis to identify risks, trends, and opportunities.
• Lead supplier performance reviews and escalation meetings, driving accountability and improvement.
• Ensure adherence to company procurement policies, ethical standards, and industry regulations.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the procurement function.
• Mentor and guide junior members of the purchasing team.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally to support customer and project requirements.

Category Specialist Qualities, Experience & Attributes

Essential

• HND or equivalent qualification.
• Significant experience in materials control, procurement, or supply chain management.
• Strong understanding of MRP or similar material planning systems.
• Excellent negotiation, analytical, and stakeholder management skills.
• Highly organised, detail‑oriented, and effective under pressure.
• Self‑motivated and results‑driven, with strong communication skills at all levels.

Desirable

• MCIPS qualification or working towards it.
• Familiarity with Oracle or similar ERP systems (training provided if required).
• Project management experience and a focus on continuous improvement.

What's on Offer

• Join a globally respected organisation at the forefront of its industry.
• Be part of a forward-thinking, collaborative team environment.
• Opportunity to influence strategic sourcing and supplier development.
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

Ready to make your next move? Apply now and bring your expertise to a team that values initiative and innovation.

Please click 'APPLY NOW', or call the WSR Team at (phone number removed) for more info.

We appreciate the time and effort invested in your application. While we strive to respond to all applicants promptly, we kindly ask for your understanding in case of delays. If you do not hear from us within 10 days of submitting your application, please assume that, unfortunately, you have not been successful this time.

We will however keep your CV on file and review your suitability against any other vacancies we may have available.