My client, a leading education Group, is seeking to hire a Senior Category Manager to join their Group Procurement function.
Group Procurement is a newly formed function, currently building a centralised team to deliver a step change in procurement capability and value creation across the organisation.
This is a unique opportunity to shape the direction of the function from the ground up, embedding category management practices that enhance efficiency and deliver measurable benefits. You will work in close alignment with our Centre of Excellence and collaborate with international procurement teams based in France, India and Germany to unlock global synergies and drive meaningful impact.
This role will lead the development and execution of category strategies across both global and UK scopes.
The role encompasses supplier relationship management, contract negotiation, and cost-effective sourcing, all while ensuring compliance and maintaining high quality standards. Success in this role requires strong procurement expertise, sharp commercial acumen, and the ability to work cross-functionally in a dynamic, international environment.
Hybrid working. For further details, please apply using the link.
Core Areas of Focus
Category Strategy Development
- Collaborate with in-country procurement teams, the Head of Global Procurement, and key stakeholders to design and execute category strategies that align with business goals, unlock cost efficiencies, and accelerate value delivery.
- Conduct market research and benchmarking to identify key trends, risks, and opportunities.
- Navigate global and local procurement dynamics to ensure effective and adaptable category execution.
Supplier Management
- Source, evaluate, and select suppliers based on cost, quality, and delivery performance.
- Build and maintain strong, strategic supplier relationships to ensure consistent supply and service levels.
- Monitor supplier performance through structured reviews and compliance audits.
Contract Negotiation
- Lead negotiations to secure favourable commercial and legal terms.
- Ensure all agreements adhere to internal governance and regulatory standards.
- Oversee contract renewals, amendments, and lifecycle management.
Cost Management
- Drive and implement cost-saving initiatives without compromising on quality or service delivery.
- Track market conditions and pricing trends to inform procurement decisions.
- Maintain and manage a forward-looking cost savings pipeline across your categories.
- Support the Centre of Excellence in aligning category plans with tactical purchasing activities.
Risk & Compliance
- Identify supply chain risks and develop mitigation plans.
- Ensure adherence to ethical sourcing, sustainability goals, and company compliance requirements.
- Monitor supplier compliance across operational and regulatory dimensions.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with internal teams (e.g. IT, HR, Sales, Marketing) to understand business requirements and align procurement strategies accordingly.
- Ensure category strategies are aligned and implemented consistently across international teams.
- Provide guidance and support to local procurement functions, ensuring collaboration with the Centre of Excellence on task execution.
Performance & Continuous Improvement
- Define, track, and report on KPIs for key suppliers.
- Prepare regular performance reports covering savings, risk, and supplier performance in collaboration with the Centre of Excellence.
- Work closely with the Head of Global Procurement to enhance procurement processes and contribute to ongoing functional improvement.
Candidates should have the following attributes/past experience:
- Degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant field
- MCIPS certification (achieved or currently working towards)
- Proficient in using e-Procurement systems and procurement software
- Strong communication and negotiation skills
- Proven ability to manage and influence stakeholders effectively
- Entrepreneurial approach with a resilient and proactive attitude
- Strategic outlook with a hands-on, solutions-driven approach
- Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail
- Capable of thriving in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple priorities simultaneously
- Strong commercial awareness and financial insight aligned to business objectives
- Skilled in supplier relationship management, contract negotiation, and networking
- Highly organised with solid project management capabilities
- Self-starter with the ability to prioritise and manage several workstreams concurrently
- Demonstrates high levels of personal and professional integrity
- Collaborative and effective in cross-functional, international teams
- Experience in applying structured category management methodologies