Junior Category Manager

Junior Category Manager

About the Role:

Talentedge HR&Ops are seeking a motivated Junior Category Manager to join a global procurement team. This role offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to the efficient and cost-effective sourcing of goods and services. You'll work closely with a Category Manager, gaining valuable experience in strategic sourcing and supplier relationship management.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the Category Manager to identify short and medium-term opportunities through business feedback, procurement spend analysis, and supplier research.
• Manage transactional category relationships with internal stakeholders and suppliers across diverse categories.
• Work with the business to improve the buying experience, consider sustainability concerns, and address wastage within the business or procurement processes for your category and wider procurement spend.
• Support the Category Manager in end-to-end procurement cycle activities, including supplier research, tender documentation, and supplier clarification.
• Negotiate with suppliers to ensure the best value and robust terms and conditions, as well as manage risk appropriately and align with business needs.
• Manage relationships with internal and external stakeholders through regular and close working relations, providing a valuable commercial service while upholding procurement policies.
• Provide guidance to the business on specifications and ensure the final product is clear, unambiguous, and meaningful to the marketplace.

Your Background:

• Experience working in a procurement team at a Junior Category Manager level or similar.
• Understanding of key contractual terms and the ability to challenge suppliers to meet business objectives.
• Understanding of Category Management and its role within Procurement.
• Intermediate/Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables and data analysis).

What’s on Offer

This is a 14-month maternity cover, and there might be longer-term opportunities.

The salary is around £35k, and this is a hybrid 3-day per week role.