Strategic Category Manager

1 month ago


Carlisle, Cumbria, United Kingdom Grain Connect Limited Full time

This is a full-time role working 37.5 hours per week, Monday – Friday, for the Strategic Category Manager - Fiber Optic Network position at Grain Connect Limited.

About the Role

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing sourcing activities, including identifying and qualifying new suppliers, constructing ITTs, RFPs, and tender adjudication. They will also negotiate terms and conditions with suppliers, ensuring contractual terms are fit for purpose.

  • Lead on negotiating whole life cost improvements within the supply chain and identify and qualify new sources of supply for broader benefits.
  • Create and present both cost models and tender evaluation models.
  • Establish supplier performance KPIs and manage in-life performance, identifying opportunities for cost and performance improvement.

In addition to these responsibilities, the Strategic Category Manager - Fiber Optic Network will develop risk mitigation strategies for higher-risk suppliers and products. They will also implement a local catalogue for growing external spending to ensure continuity of supply.

Key Skills and Qualifications
  • MCIPS professional procurement qualification or BA/BS degree in business administration, economics, purchasing, or equivalent preferred.
  • Minimum five years experience in procurement roles leading sourcing activities and negotiating pricing and commercial terms (competitive and non-competitive).
  • Knowledge of telecommunications and/or technology industries desirable.
  • Experience in managing supplier improvement programs and performance reviews.
  • Good working knowledge of contracts and terms and conditions and ability to negotiate them.
  • Analytical skills with strong communication skills at all levels, attention to detail, and ability to work across the organisation.
Working Conditions

This is a permanent role with a salary range of £55,000 - £65,000 depending on experience. We offer 25 days annual leave allowance, plus bank holidays. Additional benefits include an Employee Incentive Scheme, Employee Referral Scheme, Perks at Work, and Employee Assistance Programme.



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