Category Lead - Procurement

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

The Category Lead is responsible for developing and executing category strategies within the Source to contract (S2C) programme, managing sourcing events, supplier relationships, and ensuring delivery of savings, compliance, and operational excellence for multiple Goods Not for Resale (GNFR) categories

Experience

SAP ARIBA Sourcing experience is essentialKey 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
• 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

Reports to: S2C Programme Lead or designated senior procurement leader