Overview
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.
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