Are you a strategic thinker with strong negotiation skills and expertise in procurement? My client is seeking a Category Procurement Manager to lead supplier selection and sourcing plans, delivering outstanding outcomes in quality, cost, and service while mitigating risks effectively.
What You’ll Do:
* Develop and execute sourcing plans to optimise cost, supplier performance, and product quality.
* Benchmark suppliers and proactively identify cost-saving opportunities.
* Build and manage strong supplier relationships to drive value and continuous improvements.
* Provide market insights, ensure alternative supply plans for key lines, and support inventory planning.
* Lead, coach, and develop a procurement team, ensuring high performance and alignment with objectives.
* Collaborate across teams and support strategic goals for Procurement and the broader business.
* Represent the procurement function externally and deputise for the Head of Procurement when needed.
What We’re Looking For:
* Proven procurement expertise, including international sourcing and financial acumen.
* Strong negotiation, analytical, and communication skills.
* Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with shifting priorities.
* Demonstrated leadership qualities, with the ability to influence, coach, and motivate a team.
* Ideally from a packaging/manufacturing background.
Location: Bedford
Type: Permanent
Salary: £50,000 - £60,000 plus car allowance