We are looking for an experienced category manager to join our procurement team!
the categories you are responsible will be dependent on experience and can include Asian Grocery, Desserts & Ice Cream, IQF Vegetables/Fruit, and Recipe Dish
This role is integral to ensuring cost-effective procurement strategies and maintaining high standards for our restaurants.
Category Management:
Sourcing and Procurement:
* Manage the procurement process for designated food categories.
* Develop and implement category strategies to optimize costs and supplier performance.
* Identify and negotiate with suppliers to secure the best prices and terms.
Supplier Management:
* Build and maintain strong relationships with existing suppliers.
* Monitor supplier performance and address any issues promptly.
Contract Negotiation and Management:
* Negotiate contracts ensuring optimal terms, pricing, and service levels.
* Contract management, ensuring compliance and managing renewals and amendments effectively.
Cost Control:
* Implement strategies to manage and reduce product inflation.
* Conduct regular spend analysis to ensure budget adherence and identify areas for improvement.
Project Management:
* Lead multiple procurement projects, ensuring timely and successful completion.
* Coordinate with development teams to align procurement activities with project timelines.
Risk Management
* Identify and mitigate risks associated with the procurement of goods and services.
* Develop contingency plans to manage supply chain disruptions.
Stakeholder Engagement:
* Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand their needs and expectations.
* Provide regular updates and reports to senior management on procurement activities and outcomes.
Sustainability and Innovation:
Sustainable Sourcing:
* Develop and implement strategies to source sustainable products.
* Ensure suppliers comply with sustainability standards.
Brand Development:
* Support brand and menu development by sourcing innovative products.
* Work closely with marketing and development teams to meet brand objectives.
Skills and Competencies:
* Highly numerate with strong analytical capabilities to perform spend analysis, market research, and supplier performance evaluations.
* Proficient in using IT systems and procurement software.
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact with suppliers, stakeholders, and team members.
* Ability to present information clearly and persuasively.
* Strong negotiation skills to achieve the best terms with suppliers.
* Effective project management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks.
* Ability to think strategically and solve complex problems.
* Adaptable to changing priorities and capable of working in a fast-paced environment.
* Honest and committed to personal and professional development.
Requirements
* Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
* Professional certification (e.g., CIPS) is highly desirable.
Experience
* Proven track record in strategic purchasing or category management.
* Experience in managing food categories within a retail or hospitality environment is a plus.
what we can offer you
* competitive salary + 20% bonus potential + £300 per month car allowance
* flexible hybrid working (with option to work + eat from one of our restaurants!)
* modern offices + culture to be proud of
* £200 monthly wagamama food allowance — enjoy all your favourite dishes on us!
* private healthcare
* 3% pension contribution
* 25 days holiday plus bank holidays — plenty of time to relax and recharge
* + further discounts across retail, hospitality & leisure — perks that make life sweeter
* Supporting you every step of the way! family-friendly pay: 26 weeks full pay + 13 weeks half pay for expectant or adopting parents