Category Manager

Overview

As Category Manager you will own and shape the strategy for a defined spend area within a major UK infrastructure organisation. You will lead end-to-end sourcing, supplier management and continuous improvement to maximise value and manage risk across a portfolio up to £20m. You will act as a trusted commercial adviser, building strong stakeholder relationships and translating market insight into practical actions. The role offers autonomy and exposure to senior colleagues, with opportunities to grow into a fully-fledged Category Manager. This is a high-visibility, impactful role that supports responsible procurement and value delivery.

Responsibilities

• Develop and own category strategies for short, medium and long term, focusing on value and risk across up to £20m
• Lead full sourcing lifecycle: market analysis, tender management, negotiation, contract award and ongoing supplier management
• Build and maintain stakeholder relationships, acting as a trusted commercial advisor across levels
• Manage supplier relationships under a structured framework, with governance reviews and contract performance
• Identify and deliver commercial initiatives and process improvements with lasting impact
• Conduct risk reviews and supplier due diligence, supporting enterprise risk management
• Mentor and peer-review colleagues to promote best practice across the team

Key requirements

• Experience in a Category Manager, procurement or commercial role
• Understanding of complex supply chains and ability to engage with suppliers and stakeholders
• Strong commercial instincts; ability to manage risk, interpret data and act on market insight
• Good influencing and communication skills; capable of constructive challenge and building trust
• Familiarity with sourcing, tendering, contract management and negotiation
• Commitment to ethical and responsible procurement practices
• Degree educated (desirable) or equivalent professional experience

• influencing and communication
• stakeholder management
• constructive challenge
• sourcing and tendering processes
• contract management
• negotiation

…