Global Category Manager, Meetings & Events Services

Smith & Nephew; Watford; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Smith & Nephew is seeking a Global Category Manager for Meetings & Events Services. This pivotal role will focus on strategizing global spend and optimizing supplier partnerships to enhance event quality and compliance. The ideal candidate will bring strong procurement skills and a track record of stakeholder engagement within complex environments.

Benefits

Generous annual bonus and pension schemes

Flexible vacation and time off

Private health and dental plans

Training and mentorship programs

Discounts on gyms and fitness clubs

Qualifications

• Hands-on procurement experience in services or marketing categories.
• Ability to drive value through strategic sourcing.
• Confidence navigating complex global environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead sourcing initiatives for events management and venue bookings.
• Monitor compliance with policies and contract standards.
• Deliver cost savings and drive innovation through supplier partnerships.

Skills

Procurement

Stakeholder Engagement

Contract Negotiation

Analytical Skills

Project Management

Communication

Job description

Life Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew, we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living.

We’re hiring a Global Category Manager - Meetings & Events Services, a pivotal role that sits at the intersection of strategy, innovation, and stakeholder engagement. This is your opportunity to lead the transformation of how we plan, source, and deliver world-class events across the globe.

In this role, you’ll take ownership of a global spend portfolio, developing and executing procurement strategies that drive value, ensure compliance, and elevate the quality of our events. You’ll work closely with senior stakeholders in Marketing, Medical Education, and Commercial teams, aligning procurement goals with business priorities and ensuring our events reflect the excellence of our brand.

It’s about creating smarter, more sustainable, and more impactful experiences. You’ll shape global policy, lead supplier partnerships, and bring innovation to the forefront of our Meetings & Events strategy. From venue sourcing and event management to risk mitigation and supplier performance, you’ll be the strategic force behind this category.

What you will be doing?

• Support the creation of the M&E policy and contribute to the global category strategy for Meetings & Events.
• Manage stakeholder engagement and lead sourcing initiatives for services including event management, tradeshows, and venue bookings.
• Oversee supplier segmentation, selection, performance tracking, and contract negotiation.
• Deliver on cost savings, risk mitigation, and innovation through supplier partnerships.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with procurement policies and contract standards.
• Track supplier performance and resolve risk or quality issues in a timely manner.
• Contribute to planning activities and project execution aligned with strategic goals.
• Work closely with Travel and other category managers to explore alignment opportunities.

What will you need to be successful?

Your background will include hands-on procurement experience, particularly within services or marketing categories, where you’ve demonstrated your ability to drive value through strategic sourcing and supplier management.

You’ll be confident navigating complex, global environments, with a proven ability to influence stakeholders and negotiate contracts effectively. A deep understanding of the Meetings & Events supply market, combined with strong analytical, communication, and project management skills, will be key to your success.

You. Unlimited

We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our strongest investments are in our people and the patients we serve.

• Inclusion, Diversity and Equity: Committed to welcoming, celebrating, and thriving on diversity. Learn more about Employee Inclusion Groups on our website (https://www.smith-nephew.com/).
• Your Future: Generous annual bonus and pension schemes, Save As You Earn share options, and a car allowance.
• Work/Life Balance: Flexible vacation and time off, paid holidays, and paid volunteering hours to give back to our communities.
• Your Wellbeing: Private health and dental plans, healthcare cash plans, income protection, life assurance, and more.
• Flexibility: Hybrid working model (for most professional roles).
• Training: Hands-on, team-customized mentorship programs.
• Extra Perks: Discounts on gyms and fitness clubs, salary sacrifice bicycle and car schemes, and other employee discounts.

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