Category Manager

Leeds, Yorkshire
MERJE Ltd

MERJE are partnered with a leading business solutions and energy company in their search for a number of Procurement Category Managers.

An opportunity to play your part – To be successful in this role, you will play a pivotal force within the Infrastructure / Assets team, driving the strategic procurement engine that powers success.

The mission is clear, to meticulously craft and execute a Category strategy, collaborating with stakeholders and other Category leads navigating complex landscapes of procurement projects.

With an unwavering focus on achieving the most favourable commercial outcomes for the business, your role is at the helm of initiatives, focusing on a multitude of categories including Batteries, Solar, CHP, Construction Services and Ancillary Equipment.

The Day to Day

• Establish procurement plans considering new business needs, strategies, emerging risks, and supplier contracts.
• Utilize tools like Porters Five Forces and Kraljic to grasp market dynamics and develop category strategies.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to devise effective go-to-market strategies aligned with category goals.
• Lead procurement tenders and negotiate contracts in line with the category’s strategic direction.
• Oversee commercial negotiations and collaborate with legal teams for contract drafting and negotiation.
• Develop and implement SRM activities aligning with the business framework.
• Manage contract governance, collaborate with risk teams to mitigate risks associated with procurement.
• Optimise the supplier base, refining buying channels and the category playbook for tactical sourcing.
• Collaborate extensively within the Procurement Function to enhance stakeholder experience.
• Preparedness for travel within the UK and potentially Europe for fulfilling job responsibilities.

About You

• Degree level qualification in procurement, business, or relevant discipline, 2+ years of experience in a large-scale procurement organisation.
• Direct procurement experience in various areas, such as EPC procurement, large construction projects with FIDIC or NEC Contracts, projects involving CHP, Peaker engines, BESS, or Solar installations, and manufacturing solar, BESS, or ancillary equipment.
• Experience performing end-to-end Category Management activities.
• Desirable certifications include MCIPS CIPS or ISM, though not mandatory.
• Ability to translate stakeholder requirements and market dynamics into a clear category strategy.
• Demonstrated strategic thinking, linking the category strategy to business needs.
• Strong knowledge of navigating market dynamics and commercial awareness.
• Competence in commercial negotiation and construction contract drafting (FIDIC, NEC, JCT, or similar).
• Ability to effectively manage key suppliers to sustain negotiated value.
• Proven negotiation skills with a track record of cost reduction in indirect spend.
• Ability to influence without direct authority and manage upwards.

What’s in it for you

• Competitive salary of £50-55,000 plus bonus potential.
• Hybrid working, Flexibility of working locations.
• Employee Energy Allowance at 15% of the government price cap.
• Pension scheme.
• Company Funded Healthcare Plan.
• 25 days holiday allowance, plus public holidays, and the option to buy up to 5 additional days.
• Excellent range of flexible benefits, including technology vouchers, electric car lease scheme & travel insurance.