Job description

Role Description - Category Lead

Job title: Category Lead
Function: Procurement – Category Management & Sourcing Execution
Job Level: JL5
Location: London, UK
Reports to: S2C Programme Lead
Language: English (Required)

Role Purpose

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement category strategies, leveraging market intelligence, spend analytics, and stakeholder input while embedding the client’s sustainability and compliance principles
• Lead sourcing events (RFx, negotiations, contracting) for assigned categories, ensuring alignment with the client’s objectives and robust governance
• Manage supplier performance, risk, and relationship management, including Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) for strategic suppliers, with a focus on data-driven decision-making and sustainability
• Collaborate with S2C Lead and Delivery teams to ensure seamless execution and benefit realisation, fostering a collaborative, partnership-driven approach
• Drive continuous improvement, innovation, and adoption of best practices within and across categories, supporting the Client’s transformation programme
• Support digital enablement (catalogue management, analytics, e-sourcing tools), ensuring compliance and operational efficiency
• Provide structured reporting on category performance, savings, and compliance, supporting the client’s commitment to measurable value and transparency

Essential Skills

• 8+ years in procurement/category management, ideally in retail or FMCG
• SAP ARIBA Sourcing experience is essential
• Proven track record in strategic sourcing, supplier management, and contract negotiation
• Demonstrated ability in team leadership and project management skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in business English
• High levels of EQ and cultural awareness to build relationships, align efforts, and effectively influence
• Experience with procurement technology (SAP Ariba)
• Ability to demonstrate the client’s values across accountability, sustainability, and collaboration, with a commitment to customer-centricity and operational excellence

Education

• Degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field
• CPSM (US), CIPS (UK) or similar Procurement certification preferred
• Excellent MS office skills, particularly in Excel and analysis

Reporting Line

-25 days holiday excluding Bank Holiday’s Leave Year runs from April 1 to March 31

-Sick Pay

-Employee discounts – Perk Box

-Access to training platform for PD – Lex

-Pension – employer contribution 3% employee contribution 5% - total 8% of designated banding

-Income Protection

-Private Medical Insurance Scheme

-Employee Assistance Program (EAP)