The Lead Procurement & Category Manager is responsible for leading the development and delivery of category strategies and end-to-end sourcing activity across assigned spend categories. Reporting to the Head of Procurement & Category Management, and working alongside another Lead Manager and an Enablement Manager, this role plays a key part in driving commercial value, transformation and best practice across the organisation.

Leading and developing a team of Category Managers, the Lead Procurement & Category Manager is accountable for delivering value through effective sourcing, category strategy delivery, and continuous improvement. The role partners closely with stakeholders across the business, influencing decision-making and aligning category strategies to support an optimised cost base.

Category Strategy

• Responsible for end-to-end sourcing activity along with setting the strategy for assigned categories
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve category strategies aligned with business objectives, market trends, and organisational priorities
• Lead the identification and shaping of sourcing opportunities, using market insight and demand analysis to inform category strategies
• Drive continuous improvement through process optimisation, increased automation, and the adoption of best practice, supported by the development of practical toolkits and training for both the team and wider business
• Lead complex sourcing projects and negotiations, manage supplier relationships, and oversee contract management, risk, and performance frameworks for assigned categories
• Champion responsible procurement, sustainability initiatives, and commercial value creation, ensuring compliance with organisational values and policies

Team Leadership

• Manage, coach, and develop a team of Procurement Category Managers ensuring high performance, professional growth and effective delivery of team objectives
• Support the continuous development of technical and transferable skills, particularly in data literacy, digital awareness, and stakeholder engagement
• Provide coaching, guidance and clear direction to the team, while promoting accountability and wellbeing

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders to understand business needs, influence decision-making, and ensure alignment of procurement activities with organisational goals
• Provide clear and accessible communication that explains objectives, shows progress, and outlines expected outcomes
• Provide commercial challenge and insight to stakeholders, influencing decision-making to ensure optimal procurement outcomes
• Represent procurement in relevant internal forums and raise the profile and maturity of the procurement and category management function

Transformation

• Lead procurement-led transformation initiatives that improve sourcing efficiency, enhance commercial value, and embed consistent category management practices across the organisation
• Encourage the effective use of digital tools and data to support efficiency and cost optimisation

Essential experience and skills

• Proven experience in Procurement/Category Management
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute category strategies that deliver measurable value
• Ability to balance and anticipate the needs of various stakeholders
• Experience managing and developing teams, with strong coaching and leadership skills
• Strong analytical capability, using data and insight to inform sourcing decisions and support commercial outcomes
• Experience delivering sustainability, innovation, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Strong problem-solving skills and sound judgement when balancing strategic objectives with practical delivery
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a dynamic environment
• Knowledge of contract law, risk management, and procurement best practice

Desirable

• Degree level qualification (procurement or related subject area preferred), or equivalent relevant professional experience
• Understanding of CIPS principles or frameworks
• Awareness of external market trends and industry practices, with the ability to assess their relevance to the business

Interpersonal skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex ideas clearly and influence at all levels
• Skilled in negotiation and conflict resolution, achieving positive outcomes while maintaining strong relationships
• Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build trust and credibility with colleagues, suppliers, and senior leaders