Junior Category Manager

The Restaurant Group; Greater London; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading hospitality business in the UK seeks a Junior Category Manager for a 12-month FTC in Greater London. This role requires overseeing food procurement and supplier relationships, aiming for cost efficiency and high standards. Ideal candidates will have a relevant degree, strategic purchasing experience, and strong analytical skills. The position offers the opportunity for professional growth in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in strategic purchasing or category management.
• Managing food categories in retail or hospitality is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Manage the procurement process for designated food categories.
• Develop and implement category strategies.
• Build and maintain relationships with suppliers.
• Monitor supplier performance and negotiate contracts.
• Conduct spend analysis and lead procurement projects.

Skills

Numerical and analytical skills

Proficient in IT systems

Excellent communication skills

Strong negotiation abilities

Project management skills

Strategic thinking

Adaptability

Commitment to development

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Professional certification (e.g., CIPS)

Job description

We’re The Restaurant Group (TRG for short) and we’re one of the UK's biggest hospitality businesses. We’re a significant player in the UK casual dining market, operating a number of renowned restaurants and pubs including Wagamama, Barburrito and Brunning & Price.

Junior Category Manager 12 month FTC

We are looking for someone with a passion for all things food + buying to join us as a junior category manager. If you’re looking to develop your career in procurement, this role could be for you.

You will oversee food and non‑food categories for a fixed term 12 month period. This role is integral to ensuring cost‑effective procurement strategies and maintaining high standards for our Wagamama and TRGc Restaurants as well as our Brunning and Price Pubs. Working alongside a team of Category Managers the candidate will manage >£20m spend with key strategic suppliers.

Responsible for:

• Categories across food and non‑food. Including - with potential to change depending on experience: Fresh Produce, Dairy, Noodles & Professional Services

What you’ll do:

• Manage the procurement process for designated food categories.
• Develop and implement category strategies to optimise costs and supplier performance.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing suppliers.
• Evaluate and onboard new suppliers to meet business needs.
• Monitor supplier performance and address any issues promptly.
• Negotiate contracts ensuring optimal terms, pricing, and service levels.
• Implement strategies to manage and reduce product inflation.
• Explore new sourcing opportunities to maintain cost efficiency.
• Conduct regular spend analysis to ensure budget adherence and identify areas for improvement.
• Lead multiple procurement projects, ensuring timely and successful completion.
• Coordinate with development teams to align procurement activities with project timelines.
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with the procurement of goods and services.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand their needs and expectations.
• Provide regular updates and reports to senior management on procurement activities and outcomes.
• Develop and implement strategies to source sustainable products.
• Support brand and menu development by sourcing innovative products.
• Work closely with marketing and development teams to meet brand objectives.

Skills and Competencies:

• Highly numerate with strong analytical capabilities to perform spend analysis, market research, and supplier performance evaluations.
• Proficient in using IT systems and procurement software.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact with suppliers, stakeholders, and team members.
• Strong negotiation skills to achieve the best terms with suppliers.
• Effective project management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Ability to think strategically and solve complex problems.
• Adaptable to changing priorities and capable of working in a fast‑paced environment.
• Honest and committed to personal and professional development.

Requirements:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
• Professional certification (e.g., CIPS) is highly desirable.

Experience:

• Proven track record in strategic purchasing or category management.
• Experience in managing food categories within a retail or hospitality environment is a plus.

Skills:

• Strong organisational and time‑management skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.
• Ability to influence and communicate effectively at all levels, including senior management.

This role is critical in ensuring that our categories are effectively sourced and managed, supporting the growth and sustainability of the TRG Group. If you have the required skills and experience and are ready to take on a dynamic and challenging role, we encourage you to apply.