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Reporting to: Head of Marine Procurement and Supply Chain
Location: London
Overview of role
Category Officer plays a pivotal role in driving procurement excellence by developing and executing strategic sourcing strategies for designate categories of goods and services. This position is responsible for managing end-to-end contracting activities, category performance, including supplier relationship management, cost optimisation, quality assurance, and value creation. By collaborating closely with internal stakeholders, the Category Officer ensures that procurement activities are fully aligned with the organisation's strategic goals and operational needs. Additionally, the role ensures adherence to organisational policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements, fostering a culture of compliance and continuous improvement. This role is critical in delivering measurable business outcomes, such as cost savings, risk mitigation, and enhanced supplier performance, while supporting the organisation's overall growth and sustainability objectives.
Key responsibilities and primary deliverables
* Develop and execute category strategies to achieve cost savings, improve quality, and ensure supply continuity.
* Conduct market analysis to identify trends, risks and opportunities within the assigned category.
* Define and implement long-term category plans aligned with organisational goals.
* Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers to ensure a competitive and reliable supply base.
* Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms with suppliers to ensure a competitive and reliable supply base.
* Monitor supplier performance, conduct regular reviews, and address any issues related to quality, delivery, or service.
* Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and stakeholders.
* Analyse spend data to identify cost-saving opportunities and drive efficiencies.
* Establish and apply cost modelling concepts, spend & demand analysis and evaluation.
* Negotiate the best deal for the company also taking the full life time cost into consideration.
* Achievement of key category target incl. cost management, operation excellence, innovation engagement and ESG initiatives.
* Implement cost reduction initiatives without compromising quality or service levels.
* Track and report on savings achieved though category management activities.
* Work closely with internal departments to understand their needs and align procurement activities accordingly.
* Provide expert advise and support to stakeholders on category-related matters.
* Ensure procurement activities are integrated with business objectives and project requirements.
* Ensure all procurement activities comply with organisational policies, industry regulations, and ethical standards.
* Identify and mitigate risks within the supply chain, including supply disruptions and price volatility.
* Coordinate and assist line departments on contractual matters and resolve issues with contractors/vendors.
* Administer claims/complaints occurring in performance of contracts.
* Maintain accurate records of contracts, supplier agreements, and procurement activities.
* Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) for the category, including cost savings, supplier performance, and compliance.
* Prepare regular reports and presentations for senior management.
* Continuously improve category performance through data-driven insights and feedback.
* Establish proper mechanisms and create adequate processes to support Procurement performance efficiency and Contract effective Management.
Skills profile
* Successful background and demonstrated experience in Marine Procurement operations and activities. Minimum 7 years of procurement experience with a Ship Owner or Ship Manager, including at least 5 years in Category Management.
* Bachelor's degree in Marine Engineering, Supply Chain, Logistics, Purchasing Management, or a related field.
* MSc in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a related field or member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply or equivalent professional body would be an advantage.
* Proficient skills in speaking and writing English.
* Advanced proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint.
* Proficient in collecting, analysing and interpreting numerical data to derive insights and support decision-making with strategic thinking ability, to support decisions with sound reasoning and judgement.
* Strong attention to detail.
* Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Able to collaborate effectively, resolve conflicts and foster productive partnerships with suppliers, colleagues and cross-functional teams.
* Strong market awareness and in-depth understanding of maritime supply chain components, regulations, market conditions, trade documentation, risk management and insurances.
* Good at solving complex business problems in a structured and analytical manner.
* A strong negotiator with proven track record of successful negotiations.
* Strong commercial mindset with a natural focus on achieving the most cost-efficient solutions to the business.
* Have an entrepreneurial mindset and are good at balancing multidimensional stakeholder demands with the need for results.
* Positive attitude, strong work ethic and high level of integrity.
Due to the high volume of applications, we regret that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
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