Category Manager

Category ManagerLocation: Birmingham - HybridSalary: £55,000 + £6,000 Car Allowance + BenefitsAbout the RoleAn industry-leading manufacturer is looking to appoint an experienced Category Manager to lead the sourcing and management of key indirect spend categories, including IT, HR, Professional Services, Facilities, and Factory Services.This is an excellent opportunity to take ownership of procurement strategy across multiple business functions, driving cost savings, supplier performance, and value creation while supporting the wider business through strategic sourcing initiatives. Working closely with senior stakeholders, you will lead end-to-end procurement activities, develop category strategies, manage complex tenders, and build long-term supplier partnerships that deliver commercial and operational benefits.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and implement procurement strategies across a range of indirect spend categories.Lead end-to-end tendering activities, including RFIs, RFQs, ITTs, supplier evaluations, negotiations, and contract awards.Build and maintain strong supplier relationships, driving performance, innovation, and continuous improvement.Negotiate commercial agreements to achieve cost savings, improve service levels, and minimise risk.Develop and execute category plans aligned with business objectives.Identify new sourcing opportunities and suppliers to support business growth and operational excellence.Partner with internal stakeholders to understand business requirements and provide strategic procurement support.Monitor supplier performance through KPIs, contract reviews, and regular business reviews.Ensure procurement activities comply with company policies, governance, and contractual obligations.Support and influence wider procurement initiatives, delivering value across the organisation.About YouYou'll be an experienced procurement professional with a proven track record of managing indirect procurement categories and delivering successful sourcing strategies. You will be commercially minded, confident leading negotiations, and capable of building strong relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders alike.You'll enjoy working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and be motivated by identifying opportunities to improve cost, quality, and supplier performance.Skills & ExperienceProven experience in a Procurement Manager, Category Manager, Senior Buyer, Strategic Buyer, or similar role.Strong experience managing indirect procurement categories such as IT, HR, Facilities, Professional Services, or Factory Services.Demonstrable experience leading complex tender processes and supplier negotiations.Strong contract management and supplier relationship management experience.Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.Commercially focused with strong analytical and negotiation abilities.Experience within manufacturing, FMCG, or an industrial environment would be advantageous.MCIPS qualified or working towards MCIPS is desirable but not essential.What's on OfferThis is an opportunity to join a well-established business with an excellent reputation for innovation, quality, and employee development. You'll have the autonomy to influence procurement strategy, lead high-value sourcing projects, and play a key role in delivering commercial value across the organisation.If this opportunity is of interest, please apply with your updated CV and a member of our team will be in touch.#2sfghTPBN1_UKTJ