Category Officer, Procurement, London

JR United Kingdom; London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading international shipping operator in London is seeking an exceptional Category Officer for Procurement. This pivotal role involves strategic procurement, cost optimization, and supplier management. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in maritime procurement and a strong analytical mindset, capable of driving performance improvements and managing supplier relationships effectively.

Qualifications

• At least seven years of procurement experience with a ship owner or ship manager.
• Five years in category management.

Responsibilities

• Oversight & coordination of tendering & contracting processes.
• Define & implement medium & long-term category plans.
• Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers.

Skills

Analytical

Negotiation

Communication

Stakeholder Management

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Marine Engineering

MSc in Supply Chain Management

Tools

Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

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Category Officer, Procurement, London, london

Client:

stonefort marine talent

Location:

London, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

EU work permit required:

Yes

Job Views:

4

Posted:

16.05.2025

Expiry Date:

30.06.2025

Job Description:

[PLEASE NOTE: BECAUSE OF THE HIGH VOLUME OF APPLICANTS, IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO REPLY TO ALL APPLICATIONS. PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU ARE FULLY QUALIFIED FOR THE ROLE BEFORE APPLYING].

OVERVIEW:

Our client, a major international shipping operator based in London, is seeking an exceptional, experienced, entrepreneurial & strategic procurement Category Officer. Reporting directly to the Head of Marine Procurement and Supply Chain, this is a pivotal & high-impact position.

The successful candidate will have a proven track record in cost optimization, value creation, and performance improvement. They will possess a genuine passion for maritime shipping procurement and a deep understanding of how to:

• Ensure operational needs of a diversified, global fleet
• Integrate procurement within the business
• Drive performance improvements through data analysis
• Support strategic company goals

The ideal candidate will have extensive market knowledge and pre-established supplier networks, with a history of successful negotiations and supplier management.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage the full lifecycle of tenders and contracts, including preparation, evaluation, negotiations, and awards.
• Administer contract processes, including reviews, variations, compliance, and renewals.
• Provide expert advice to internal stakeholders on category matters and contractual issues.

Strategic Planning:

• Develop and implement medium and long-term category plans aligned with organizational goals.
• Create strategies for cost savings, quality improvement, and supply continuity.

Data and Market Analysis:

• Analyze spend and demand data to identify efficiencies and cost-saving opportunities.
• Monitor market trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Assess supply chain risks, including disruptions and price volatility.
• Track KPIs to drive ongoing performance improvements.

Supplier and Supply Chain Management:

• Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers to ensure a competitive and reliable base.
• Negotiate contracts and terms to maximize value.
• Mitigate supply chain risks, including disruptions and market volatility.

Candidate Profile:

• Detail-oriented and strategic thinker capable of solving complex problems.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and stakeholder relationship management.
• Proven negotiation skills and commercial acumen.
• Innovative, analytical, and data-proficient.
• Strong communicator, both verbally and in writing.
• Authentic, with integrity and commitment.

Required Experience & Education:

• Minimum seven years of procurement experience in the maritime industry, with at least five in category management.
• Bachelor’s degree in marine engineering, supply chain, logistics, or related field.
• Proficiency in English.
• Advanced skills in Excel and PowerPoint.
• MSc or professional membership (e.g., Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) preferred.