Global Category Manager
Cheshire, UK
Permanent, Full-Time
We are recruiting on behalf of a leading global manufacturer based in Cheshire, renowned for their innovation, engineering excellence, and investment in world-class production technologies.
They are seeking a Global Category Manager with deep procurement expertise across Capital Equipment, OEM Spare Parts, and Auxiliary Equipment. This high-impact, strategic role will support both global growth initiatives and the optimisation of the company’s existing manufacturing footprint across Europe and the US.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead the end-to-end procurement strategy for Capital Equipment, OEM Spares, and Auxiliary Equipment in support of Greenfield developments and capacity expansion
* Deliver full Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) models to drive long-term value and present commercial data to stakeholders
* Manage Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) for your categories, ensuring supplier performance and innovation evolve with business and customer needs
* Oversee contract management, ensuring global suppliers meet SLAs and contracts reflect ongoing business priorities
* Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, and Operations to ensure technical and commercial alignment
* Evaluate machinery and suppliers from a mechanical/engineering perspective to ensure equipment quality and long-term operational efficiency
* Identify and mitigate risks across the capital equipment and spare parts supply chain, including quality, delivery, and cost issues
* Track and report on supplier KPIs and SLA performance, providing updates and recommendations to stakeholders
* Contribute to projects supporting business expansion and efficiency improvements across existing global operations
Key Skills and Experience:
* Proven experience in direct category procurement of Capital Equipment, OEM Spares, and Auxiliary Equipment within a manufacturing or industrial setting
* Strong knowledge of process equipment and mechanical systems used in manufacturing environments
* Comfortable reviewing technical specifications and evaluating equipment quality with suppliers
* Familiarity with TCO modelling, supplier performance management, and cost optimisation strategies
* Strong stakeholder engagement and experience working with global supply partners
* Skilled in contract negotiation, supplier development, and risk management
Objectives:
* Develop and implement global sourcing strategies that deliver measurable value
* Optimise the global supplier base and build high-performing, long-term partnerships
* Drive innovation and cost savings through lifecycle insight and proactive procurement planning
* Support international growth and help optimise the company’s existing production footprint
Candidate Profile:
* University degree in Procurement, Engineering, Supply Chain, or a related field
* CIPS or equivalent qualification preferred
* 5+ years' experience in procurement or category management within a manufacturing environment
* Experience sourcing from Europe and/or global emerging markets
* Willing to travel internationally (approximately once per month)
This is an opportunity to play a leading role in global sourcing strategy for high-value production equipment. You will directly influence operations, supplier performance, and the long-term success of a world-class manufacturer during an exciting phase of growth and transformation