Category Manager – Telco division

Overview

In this role you will develop and execute category strategies for the Telecommunications sector, focusing on spend analysis, market assessment, and supplier risk. You will engage stakeholders, negotiate contracts, and drive value through supplier management to optimize margins. You’ll support Ricoh as a Procurement Partner spanning hardware, software, and services. The position blends strategic sourcing with change-led collaboration in a hybrid Northampton setup.

Pay / Benefits

• flexible and hybrid working
• inclusive workplace
• strong bonus and company benefits
• holiday entitlement
• volunteering leave
• retirement plan

Responsibilities

• Develop category strategies to optimize spend and margins
• Lead supplier negotiations, contracts, escalations and dispute resolution
• Implement end-to-end supplier management including performance, risk, and compliance
• Conduct divisional spend portfolio assessments and identify future requirements
• Support supplier engagement program aligned with Ricoh values
• Adopt and utilize supplier management software to centralize records
• Collaborate with stakeholders across the business to optimize procurement strategies
• Deputize for Senior Category Manager during absence

Key requirements

• Proven procurement experience
• CIPS Level 4 qualification (preferred)
• Strategic category management experience
• Contract management and supplier performance management experience
• Experience with RFPs, tenders, cost analyses, and negotiations
• Understanding of risk and compliance in third-party supply chains
• Advanced negotiation skills and risk mitigation
• Strong relationship management and leadership abilities
• Effective communication with all levels of stakeholders
• Change management and culture adoption experience
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook

• Relationship management
• Professional and confident presentation
• Strong communication across stakeholders
• Supplier management software
• RFP/tendering processes
• Cost-based negotiation

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