Role Overview
AWE is an organisation with a unique and vital purpose: protecting the UK through world‑class nuclear science and technology. As a Category Specialist, you will assist in implementing and executing category management, strategic sourcing, contract management and supplier relationship management within assigned categories. You will support commercial and contract performance to manage project and commercial risk.
Package
£37,910 to £46,000 (depending on suitability, qualifications and experience).
Location
Reading, with free onsite parking.
Working pattern
AWE operates a 9‑day working fortnight. Flexible working arrangements are considered to support chosen schedules.
Responsibilities
Key duties include:
* Prepare and execute RFx processes, support supplier evaluation and selection, and negotiate contracts.
* Support contract handover to the business and manage supplier relationships for key suppliers.
* Monitor supplier performance and assist with external management review meetings.
* Maintain supplier base management, spend classification and secure competition.
* Deliver category targets and KPI requirements for assigned spend categories.
* Carry out business intelligence, benchmarking and market analysis to support strategy.
* Identify and track cost‑reduction initiatives and maintain contract continuity.
* Assist in forecasting spend and manage commercial risks with stakeholders.
Qualifications
Applicants should have:
* Experience as a buyer in a procurement function, ideally within a category‑led team.
* Understanding of category management and procurement processes, with exposure to indirect spend such as IT or professional services.
* Experience preparing tenders and negotiating suppliers.
* Strong Microsoft Office skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
Desired Experience
* Commercial environment experience.
* Team collaboration and independent working skills.
* Stakeholder management capabilities.
* Proficiency with electronic purchasing systems (e.g., Oracle).
* Preference for a regulated, compliance‑driven environment.
* Understanding of category lifecycle and public procurement regulations.
* Proactive, problem‑prevention mindset.
Benefits
* 9‑day working fortnight, additional annual leave.
* Market‑leading contributory pension scheme (9–13%).
* Family‑friendly policies: maternity leave (39 weeks full pay) and paternity leave (4 weeks full pay).
* Professional development support and professional body membership funding.
* Employee Assistance Programme and occupational health services.
* Life assurance insurance (4× annual salary).
* Discounts on everyday spending.
* Special leave for volunteering, public service, and caring responsibilities.
Hybrid Working
Informal hybrid work is available, typically 2–3 days onsite per week.
Security & Eligibility
* Must be a British citizen, resident in the UK for at least 5 years for Security Clearance (SC) and 10 years for Defence Vetting (DV).
* AWE will fund and manage the security clearance process.
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