Category Specialist

We are seeking a Category Specialist to support the development and delivery of effective category strategies. You will analyse spend and market data, work with stakeholders to understand business needs, and support sourcing activities that deliver value, quality and supply continuity. The role involves building strong supplier relationships and ensuring procurement activity follows relevant policies and procedures.

Key responsibilities

Support the development and implementation of category strategies aligned with business priorities. Analyse spend, supplier and market data to identify trends, risks and opportunities for savings or improvement. Engage with internal stakeholders to understand requirements and translate them into clear sourcing specifications.

Support sourcing and tendering activities, including preparing documentation, evaluating responses and making recommendations. Assist with supplier selection, negotiation and the management of supplier relationships. Monitor supplier performance against agreed service, quality, cost and delivery requirements. Maintain accurate procurement records, reports and category documentation.

Identify opportunities to manage commercial, operational and supply-chain risks. Collaborate with colleagues across procurement, finance, operations and other business functions. Promote compliance with procurement policies, contractual obligations and applicable regulations.

Qualifications

and experience Relevant experience in procurement, category management, sourcing or a related commercial role. Experience analysing spend, market information or supplier performance data. Understanding of sourcing processes, supplier management and commercial negotiation. Strong analytical skills and confidence using data to support recommendations.

Good organisational skills, with the ability to manage priorities and meet deadlines. Clear written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to work with stakeholders at different levels. Proficiency with standard office software and procurement or reporting systems. Desirable experience A qualification in procurement, supply chain management, business or a related discipline.

Experience supporting competitive tendering or contract management. Knowledge of relevant procurement regulations, policies or industry standards. Skills and attributes Commercially minded, detail-oriented and committed to achieving value for money. Collaborative and comfortable building effective working relationships with stakeholders and suppliers.

Proactive in identifying improvements, risks and opportunities. Reliable and adaptable, with a structured approach to problem-solving.