Global Category Manager - Vessels & Foundations (Offshore Wind)

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks; Inverness; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading energy provider in the UK is looking for a Global Category Manager for Vessels and Foundations to join their Procurement Operations function. The successful candidate will develop category plans, manage strategic sourcing activities, and maintain stakeholder relationships. Applicants should have extensive experience in category management, particularly in offshore wind, and strong negotiation skills. This role offers various flexible benefits and encourages diverse applications.

Benefits

Discounts on private healthcare

Gym membership discounts

Wellbeing benefits including online GP

Qualifications

• Expert level understanding of Category Management and procurement strategies.
• Experience with high value or complex procurement projects.
• Knowledge of NEC3 and/or FIDIC Contracts.
• Ability to present data effectively for business decisions.

Responsibilities

• Develop strategic category management plans and value propositions.
• Work with stakeholders to align category strategies with business goals.
• Provide market intelligence to inform strategic decision-making.
• Manage relationships with suppliers and stakeholders.

Skills

Category Management expertise

Vessel and Foundation supply market knowledge

Analytical skills

Strong negotiation abilities

Job description

The role

SSE's core purpose is to provide the energy people need in a reliable and sustainable way. Our strategy is to deliver sustained growth in the dividend payable to shareholders through the efficient operation of, and investment in, a balanced range of regulated and non-regulated businesses.

We have a truly exciting opportunity to join our organisation in a newly-established role as Global Category Manager for Vessels and Foundations (Offshore Wind) sitting within SSE's Procurement Operations function, principally supporting our Renewables businesses.

Reporting to the Head of Procurement and Commercial for Energy Infrastructure, you will be responsible for the strategic development and execution of Global Category Plans for Vessels (incl Wind Turbine Installation Vessels, Transportation Vessels, Foundation (Fixed & Floating) Installation Vessels, Cable Installation Vessels and Vessels to support operating Offshore Wind assets) and Foundations (Monopile, Jacket, Floating) within the global market. The Global Category Manager will be an expert in these categories and have an in-depth knowledge of market conditions and activities (incl. supply chain and competitor analysis), to best inform how to maximise value for the business. The Global Category Manager will be the control point of SSE's route to market and will lead, or project manage others to best inform a range of sourcing activities in support of category plans in accordance with all policies and procedures.

The Global Category Manager will liaise with stakeholders, supply chain and third-party insight/forum organisations on a regular basis, to ensure that the status of category plans remain current and reflective market conditions, and that real time cost data is accurate and available for use by the wider SSE Procurement & Commercial team.

Working with our Supplier Relationship Management team, the Global Category Manager will be responsible for maintaining effective relationships with stakeholders & supply chain (pre/post contract placement ), to ensure that essential support is provided as and when required throughout the lifecycle of our projects.

The Global Category Manager will be responsible for identifying new market entrants and where applicable, the development of the relationship with the supplier, for supplier development, innovation and bringing insights to bear.

You will

• Develop, monitor and manage effective strategic category management plans and value propositions in accordance with the overall procurement strategy, processes and procedures.
• Work closely with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the development and delivery of the Vessels and Foundations Global Category Plans and category strategies that are aligned with group and business unit strategies and value drivers.
• Develop and foster relationships with stakeholders, technical specialists, suppliers, collaborative bodies and market-place forums.
• Work with stakeholders to best inform demand, project programmes and standardise specifications.
• Maintain and convey high level of market intelligence to stakeholders to inform strategic decision making including market sector capacity, demand and new technology developments.

You have

• An expert level understanding and experience of Category Management (specialism in Vessels and Foundations preferred) and the development and communication of corresponding procurement strategies; and a track record of delivering high value or high risk/complex procurement projects within challenging timescales. Your ability to manage multiple projects concurrently, be flexible and quickly adapt to changing priorities is key, plus an ability to secure commitment from all stakeholders.
• A broad knowledge of Vessel and Foundation supply markets, end to end supply chain (and value chain) and the associated contracting options - with an ability to draft and negotiate specific and appropriate terms, including dispute procedures.
• Keen commercial awareness and appreciation of contractual risk and significant experience in drafting and negotiating the suite of NEC3 Contracts and/or FIDIC Contracts.
• Strong analytical skills and an ability to present data with meaning and impact, and in a way which enables effective business decision making.

About SSE

SSE has a bold ambition - to be a leading energy company in a net zero world. We're investing around £10 million a day in homegrown energy to help power a cleaner, more secure future. Our investment will see us build the world's largest offshore wind farm and transform the grid to deliver greener electricity to millions.

Our Procurement & Commercial teams help us get the best service and value from partners, while ensuring suppliers meet compliance, contractual and business obligations.

Flexible benefits to fit your life

Enjoy discounts on private healthcare and gym memberships. Wellbeing benefits like a free online GP and 24/7 counselling service. Interest-free loans on tech and transport season tickets, or a new bike with our Cycle to Work scheme. As well as generous family entitlements such as maternity and adoption pay, and paternity leave.

Work with an equal opportunity employer

SSE will make any reasonable adjustments you need to ensure that your application and experience with us is positive. Please contact [e-mail] / 01738 344763 to discuss how we can support you.

We're dedicated to fostering an open and inclusive workplace where people from all backgrounds can thrive. We create equal opportunities for everyone to succeed and especially welcome applications from those who may not be well represented in our workforce or industry.

Ready to apply?

Start your online application using the Apply Now box on this page. We only accept applications made online. We'll be in touch after the closing date to let you know if we'll be taking your application further. If you're offered a role with SSE, you'll need to complete a criminality check and a credit check before you start work.