Category and Procurement Services Lead in Reading

Job description

Solutions Driven is hiring on behalf of our client, who operates in the Aerospace and Defence Manufacturing space.

Hybrid - 3 days a week in the office.

The Category and Procurement Services Lead will be responsible for developing and executing category strategies, managing key supplier relationships, and ensuring the efficient delivery of procurement services across the organization. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, excellent negotiation abilities, and a proven track record of delivering cost savings and value within a complex and evolving environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Category Management:

• Develop and implement comprehensive category strategies aligned with business objectives, considering market trends, supplier landscape, and internal requirements.
• Conduct in-depth market analysis to identify opportunities for cost optimization, risk mitigation, and value creation within assigned categories.
• Lead the sourcing process, including RFx development, bid evaluation, negotiation, and contract award for category projects.
• Manage and develop strong relationships with key strategic suppliers, fostering collaboration and ensuring performance against agreed-upon terms.
• Monitor supplier performance, identify potential risks and opportunities, and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Serve as the subject matter expert for assigned categories, providing insights and guidance to internal stakeholders.
• Continuously evaluate and improve category strategies to adapt to changing market conditions and business needs.

Procurement Services:

• Oversee and optimize the end-to-end procurement process, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and adherence to internal policies and procedures.
• Develop and implement standardized procurement templates, tools, and guidelines.
• Manage and support the procurement operations team in processing purchase requisitions, purchase orders, and other procurement-related activities.
• Ensure accurate and timely processing of procurement transactions and maintain relevant documentation.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce cycle times, and improve user experience.
• Develop and maintain key procurement metrics and reports to track performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Collaborate with Finance, Legal, and other relevant departments to ensure compliance and alignment.
• Provide training and support to internal stakeholders on procurement policies and procedures.

Leadership and Collaboration:

• Lead and mentor direct reports, fostering a high-performing and collaborative team environment.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to understand their needs and provide strategic procurement support.
• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders at all levels of the organisation.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement within the procurement function.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices and emerging trends in category management and procurement.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management. Master's degree preferred.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in strategic sourcing, category management, and procurement operations.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing successful category strategies that deliver measurable cost savings and value.
• Strong understanding and demonstrated experience in supplier relationship management, supplier performance management and supplier development techniques and their application.
• Strong understanding of contract terms and conditions, and the subcontracting lifecycle.
• Proven ability to manage cost, schedule, and technical performance of subcontractors.
• Excellent negotiation, communication (written and verbal), and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Full member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) - desirable.

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

Reading

Type of Contract

Part-time jobs

Published at

10-09-2025

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English