Category Manager

Category Manager - Equipment Sales Manchester, Think Park (Hybrid) At HSS ProService , we’ve built a smarter way for businesses to get the tools, equipment, and materials they need. Our online marketplace connects customers with trusted suppliers quickly and easily, helping them get the job done. We use technology, teamwork and bold thinking to make hiring and buying better for everyone faster, simpler, and more sustainable. We’re looking for a Category Manager to join our Equipment Sales category. This is a strategic commercial role where you’ll combine supplier management, category expertise, and stakeholder engagement to drive growth, improve margins, and enhance the customer offering across our marketplace. The impact you’ll have: You’ll lead the development and execution of category strategies that strengthen our position in the building materials space. By understanding customer needs, market trends, and supplier capabilities, you’ll shape how we source, price, and promote products that power construction and infrastructure projects across the UK. A typical day: Supplier Management & Commercial Excellence Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers to expand and strengthen our building materials range Negotiate commercial agreements and pricing structures to optimise competitiveness and profitability Develop strong relationships with existing suppliers, driving continual improvement and collaboration Monitor supplier performance against agreed KPIs - including quality, delivery, and service Conduct regular supplier reviews, ensuring corrective actions are implemented where needed Category Growth & Strategy Develop and execute category strategies to deliver profitable growth and market share gains Analyse market trends, customer behaviours, and competitor activity to identify opportunities Build and maintain deep product knowledge across key materials and construction products Track category performance metrics, using data and insight to drive decisions Implement initiatives that enhance availability, pricing, and service performance Internal Stakeholder Engagement Partner with Sales teams to share product knowledge, value propositions, and market insights Support internal teams with commercial guidance and supplier updates Collaborate with Marketing to design and deliver category campaigns and promotional activity Work cross-functionally with Operations, Finance, and Procurement to optimise category processes What you’ll bring: Proven experience in building materials, construction products, or a related trade supply environment Strong commercial acumen and a track record in supplier negotiation and relationship management Excellent understanding of product ranges, pricing models, and supply chain dynamics Confident communicator and influencer with strong stakeholder management skills Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and drive strategic decisions Self-motivated, results-driven, and comfortable managing multiple priorities independently Full UK driving licence Desirable: Experience in a category management, procurement, or buying role Knowledge of market dynamics within the construction or industrial supply sectors Proficiency in ERP systems and advanced Microsoft Excel skills for reporting and analysis What you’ll get back: Join a forward-thinking team that's committed to transforming how businesses operate, using the latest technology and a bold vision. If you're passionate about being part of an industry disruptor, this is the place to build your career. Your birthday each year as annual leave to spend how you want to Healthcare Cashback Plan with money off on things like dentist, opticians including sports massage and wellbeing costs too Flexible and hybrid working - we appreciate you do your best work in different environments Head office free onsite gym Life assurance One day per year, you'll have the option to contribute to local voluntary work, an opportunity to give back to your community Training and development opportunities to keep growing your skills Wellbeing and Healthcare support at work and at home A chance to be a part of a bold digital transformation Discounts and cashback on our perks site with a huge range of purchases including days out, restaurants, gym memberships, shopping and lots more. You will get the choice of other flexible benefits that work for you through our Benefits portal – you pick the benefits you want such as Critical Illness Cover, Cycle To Work, Holiday Buy Scheme and more Different Perspectives, One Platform We’re not all the same and that’s what makes us stronger. We believe great ideas come from different people, different experiences, and different ways of thinking. Whether you’re starting out, changing careers, or looking for your next big move - if you’ve got the skills and the drive, we want to hear from you. Not sure you tick every box? That’s okay. We welcome your application even if you don't meet every single requirement. If you have any questions, email us at ProCareers@hss.com and one of our team will be happy to help.