Base Location: Glasgow or Perth
Salary: £58100- £87100 + performance-related bonus + a range of benefits to support your finances, wellbeing and family.
Working Pattern: Permanent | Full Time | Flexible First options available
The role
The Category Manager is responsible for the execution of a category management approach to the procurement of a specified portfolio of spend to ensure compliance, drive efficiencies, mitigate supply risks and drive down the total cost of ownership to the organisation.
The Category Manager is responsible for executing a Category Management Plan to ensure no value is left on the table, by conducting internal and external analyses and engaging effectively with stakeholders to determine optimum sourcing strategies. They will oversee a range of sourcing activities in support of category plans and in accordance with all policies and procedures.
The Category Manager will liaise with all relevant stakeholders on a basis to develop joint value roadmaps, provide updates on category performance and provide additional insight through reporting and commentary as required. They will build supplier engagement plans to manage the relationship with suppliers and monitor supplier performance.
You will
* Build Meaningful Relationships Partner closely with internal teams, suppliers, and external collaborators to co‑create category strategies that align with business goals and deliver real value.
* Empower Cross-Functional Collaboration Be the trusted bridge between departments, enabling smooth and effective engagement with the category team through clear communication and shared priorities.
* Lead with Insight and Care Guide stakeholders through thoughtful consultation processes, ensuring procurement activities reflect genuine service needs and foster long‑term success.
* Champion Operational Excellence Support sourcing and procurement activities with precision‑ensuring supplier lists, buying channels, and category strategies are aligned and effective.
* Drive Supplier Success and Sustainability Monitor supplier performance with care, reduce risk through strong contracts, and promote sustainability and reliability across the supply chain.
* Inspire Confidence Through Compliance Maintain a strong control environment, support audits, and ensure all category documentation is captured with integrity and attention to detail.
You have
* Strategic Business Insight A broad understanding of market dynamics, product/service categories, and the ability to align procurement strategies with business needs and value drivers.
* Proven Procurement Expertise Extensive experience of hands‑on procurement experience, with a strong track record in executing complex category management activities across similar industries. CIPS qualification preferred but not essential.
* Advanced Commercial & Legal Acumen Deep knowledge of UK and EU procurement legislation, contract drafting (including dispute procedures), and statutory compliance.
* Influential Leadership & Collaboration Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to influence cross‑functional teams, lead stakeholder engagement, and foster collaborative supplier relationships.
* Technical & Analytical Proficiency Skilled in procurement systems (e.g., Oracle, Jaggaer), highly numerate, and confident in using data to drive decisions, negotiate effectively, and improve supply chain performance.
About SSE
SSE has a bold ambition - to be a leading energy company in a net zero world. We're investing around £10 million a day in homegrown energy to help power a cleaner, more secure future. Our investment will see us build the world's largest offshore wind farm and transform the grid to deliver greener electricity to millions.
Our Procurement & Commercial teams help us get the best service and value from partners, while ensuring suppliers meet compliance, contractual and business obligations.
Flexible benefits to fit your life
Enjoy discounts on private healthcare and gym memberships. Wellbeing benefits like a free online GP and 24/7 counselling service. Interest‑free loans on tech and transport season tickets, or a new bike with our Cycle to Work scheme. As well as generous family entitlements such as maternity and adoption pay, and paternity leave.
Work with an equal opportunity employer
SSE will make any reasonable adjustments you need to ensure that your application and experience with us is positive. Please contact francesca, palmer@sse.com / 01738 344763 to discuss how we can support you.
We're dedicated to fostering an open and inclusive workplace where people from all backgrounds can thrive. We create equal opportunities for everyone to succeed and especially welcome applications from those who may not be well represented in our workforce or industry.
Ready to apply?
Start your online application using the Apply Now box on this page. We only accept applications made online. We'll be in touch after the closing date to let you know if we'll be taking your application further. If you're offered a role with SSE, you'll need to complete a criminality check and a credit check before you start work.
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