My client, an established and innovation-led business, are currently looking to recruit an experienced Category Manager / Category Management Specialist to join their established Procurement / Supply Chain Team based in North East Manchester.

Reporting to the Operations Director, the Category Manager will be responsible for identifying and selecting suppliers to support the organisations ongoing procurement strategy and the effective delivery of cost savings and efficiency projects.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyse and assess the essential skills, capabilities, and capacity of potential vendors, taking into account their competitive positioning


• Use standard industry cost models and benchmarking analysis to ensure the selection of suitable suppliers aligns with the strategic sourcing strategy


• Collaborate with Finance and business leaders to pinpoint and implement cost-saving measures aimed at lowering the overall cost of ownership


• Provide guidance and support to internal stakeholders, including engineering, planning, purchasing, and sales teams to develop sourcing strategies


• Analyse markets across multiple business lines to organise and improve sourcing processes


• Perform regular supplier reviews, implementing projects to drive the business forward


• Provide purchasing analysis reports to show spend across various sectors, highlighting specific areas requiring focus and improvement.

Requirements:

• Educated to Degree level in Engineering, Supply Chain Management or Business Economics


• At least 5 years' experience in a similar role, with a track record of delivering cost reduction and efficiency improvement projects


• Extensive experience within a manufacturing-based business, with exposure to working across various product lines and multiple components & parts.


• Proven Supply Chain Management and negotiation skills with strong technical and financial acumen and understanding


• In-depth knowledge of LEAN tools and KPI's to aid improved business efficiency, cost, and quality control initiatives.


• Extensive experience of preparing and presenting detailed reports to highlight areas of the business where cost savings and improved reliability of supply can be achieved


• Experience of managing multiple suppliers across a range of technologies and products