Category Manager - Hard Services

Play a pivotal role in maximising procurement value through strategic category management across Hard Services. You'll shape sourcing strategies, drive supplier performance, and create value-led outcomes that power operational excellence across our diverse UK businesses.

What You'll Do

• Strategic Category Leadership
• Lead the management of key Hard Services categories including plant & equipment hire, building materials & fabric, plumbing, and heating equipment.
• Conduct full spend and supplier market analysis to build long-term, value-driven sourcing strategies.
• Implement structured category plans to optimise cost, service, and sustainability outcomes.
• Anticipate business needs and adapt strategies to market, budgetary, or technological shifts.
• Develop strong partnerships with key suppliers, ensuring quality, reliability, and innovation
• Value & Savings Delivery
• Identify cost reduction opportunities and measurable efficiency gains.
• Maximise leverage by aggregating spend and harmonising supplier arrangements.
• Manage and track annual rebate recovery and savings targets.
• Stakeholder Collaboration
• Partner with procurement peers, operational leaders, and support functions to deploy category strategies.
• Provide commercial input
• Promote awareness and compliance with category frameworks across the organisation.
• Risk, Compliance & Sustainability
• Embed ESG and sustainability considerations into all sourcing decisions.
• Support project teams in identifying and mitigating category-related risks.
• Ensure adherence to procurement standards and governance frameworks.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement
• Leverage supplier insights and market intelligence to drive innovation and process efficiency.
• Influence specifications and technical solutions for best value.
• Champion continuous improvement and category-led collaboration across the business.

What You'll Bring

• Ideally 5+ years' experience in procurement, category management, or commercial roles.
• Proven track record in delivering cost savings and strategic sourcing outcomes.
• Strong analytical, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Excellent communication, influencing, and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience managing supplier performance and driving innovatio

Why join?

• Be part of a high-performing, forward-thinking Procurement function.
• Work collaboratively across operations, sustainability, and innovation.
• Enjoy autonomy, career development, and a culture built on collaboration, integrity, and value creation.

Apply asap for an initial chat