Category Manager

Category Manager

• Competitive annual salary and a comprehensive benefits package, which includes generous pension scheme.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Inclusive and supportive work environment.

Location: Dorking (hybrid working – 3 days in office, 2 days working from home)

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

We are seeking a Category Manager to deliver exceptional procurement and contract support across our category teams, to achieve cost and efficiency savings. The successful candidate will be pivotal in maintaining our high standards and delivering value to the organisation through effective category management.

Day-to-day of the role:

• Support sourcing, procurement, and contract management projects across the region, contributing significantly to their delivery.
• Track savings and quality improvement benefits, ensuring best value delivery.
• Utilise various reporting and management tools for project management, contract management, spend analysis, and benefits tracking.
• Prepare and present data and information using presentations, charts, and pivot tables in agreed formats.
• Manage complex procurement activities from initial planning to contract award.
• Produce and manage Tender Documents, uploading them to relevant tendering systems and portals.
• Develop and coordinate contract renewal workplans within the Category.
• Promoting long-term sustainability and compliance.
• Adhere to the organisation’s sourcing methodologies and procedures to ensure consistency and transparency.
• Maintain and develop professional knowledge and skills, sharing insights with other Category Managers and procurement leaders.
• Travel to meet stakeholders, maintaining strong relationships and understanding their needs.
• Conduct supplier and customer market research to support strategic sourcing strategies.
• Analyse procurement project impacts on budgets and perform supplier performance assessments.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• CIPS qualification, currently undergoing CIPS studies, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Degree or A-level education, or equivalent relevant qualifications or experience.
• Proven experience in procurement, with a strong understanding of best practice techniques in category management.
• Experience in Category Services procurement with a successful track record.
• Public Sector experience is essential, including familiarity with UK and EU procurement legislation