Procurement Category Manager – Roadside

Automobile Association; Basingstoke; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Procurement Category Manager to enhance their procurement strategy. In this pivotal role, you will manage third-party spend across Roadside Operations, driving cost reduction and service delivery. You will collaborate with stakeholders to identify value opportunities and ensure compliance with procurement policies. With a strong focus on supplier relationships and strategic sourcing, this position offers a chance to make a significant impact in a forward-thinking organization that values diversity and innovation. Join a team that champions growth and offers diverse learning opportunities.

Benefits

Annual Bonus

Cash-Car Allowance

Private Medical Insurance

25 days annual leave

Worksave pension scheme

Free AA breakdown membership

Employee discount scheme

Company funded life assurance

Diverse learning opportunities

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Experience in procurement processes and category management.
• Strong understanding of Fleet/Automotive industry standards.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement Strategic Spend Management agenda.
• Lead sourcing strategy and contract negotiation.

Skills

Procurement Processes

Supplier Relationship Management

Contract Negotiation

Stakeholder Management

Financial Reporting

Education

Experience in Fleet/Automotive Sector

Category Management

Tools

SAP Ariba

Power BI

Excel

Job description

Location: Basingstoke (hybrid working 3 office days per week)

Employment Type: Permanent, full time

Additional Benefits: Annual Bonus, Cash-Car Allowance & Private Medical Insurance

Think the AA is just about roadside assistance? Think again.

For over a century, we've been evolving and adapting. Today, as the nation's leading motoring organisation, we offer a wide range of products and services to millions of customers. From roadside assistance to home and motor insurance, and the latest driving technologies, we have it all. As we continue to expand, diversify, and modernise, joining us as a Procurement Category Manager - Roadside means you'll play a crucial role in our success and be part of this exciting motoring journey.

Our Chief Operating Office (COO) are the backbone of The AA, providing both stability and structure to support growth and innovation. We are the drivers of change.

#LI-Hybrid

This is the job

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Procurement Category Manager to join our team. This role is pivotal in delivering the Group Procurement strategy, ensuring that our business maximises value from third-party spend, including cost reduction, working capital benefits, revenue generation, and service delivery. The successful candidate will manage procurement across the Roadside Operations category, including fleet operations, mobility services, and garaging networks.

What will I be doing?

• Develop and implement a Strategic Spend Management agenda with the Head of Procurement.
• Lead sourcing strategy, selection, contract negotiation, and execution for the business area.
• Manage Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) for key strategic vendors.
• Build strategic relationships with stakeholders to understand business requirements and identify value opportunities.
• Leverage and maintain Management Information (MI) and reporting data using SAP Ariba.
• Champion Procurement Policy and guidelines to ensure compliance across functions.

What do I need?

• Experience working within the Fleet/Automotive/Vehicle Manufacturing sector with a strong understanding industry processes and standards.
• Strong experience in procurement processes, full life cycle sourcing, and category management.
• Proven track record of managing supplier relationships and outcomes.
• Proficiency in SAP Ariba, Power BI, and Excel.
• Strong communication skills for negotiating contracts and managing stakeholders.
• Ability to understand and challenge budgets and financial reporting.
• Autonomous, detail-oriented, and high emotional intelligence.

Additional information

We’re always looking to recognise and reward our employees for the work they do. As a valued member of The AA team, you’ll have access to a range of benefits including:

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays + holiday buying scheme
• Worksave pension scheme with up to 7% employer contribution
• Free AA breakdown membership from Day 1 plus 50% discount for family and friends
• Discounts on AA products including car and home insurance
• Employee discount scheme that gives you access to a car salary sacrifice scheme plus great discounts on healthcare, shopping, holidays and more
• Company funded life assurance
• Diverse learning and development opportunities to support you to progress in your career
• Dedicated Employee Assistance Programme and a 24/7 remote GP service for you and your family

Plus, so much more!

We’re an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from everyone. The AA values diversity and the difference this brings to our culture and our customers. We actively seek people from diverse backgrounds to join us and become part of an inclusive company where you can be yourself, be empowered to be your best and feel like you truly belong. We have five communities to bring together people with shared characteristics and backgrounds and drive positive change.