Category Manager - Dairy & Desserts

About The Role

- Department: Restaurant Support Centre - Hours: full time - Closing Date: 28 April 2026

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Procurement Category Manager is responsible for developing and implementing strategic sourcing strategies for specific procurement categories to deliver long-term value, cost savings, risk mitigation, and supplier performance. This role requires close collaboration with internal stakeholders and suppliers to ensure category strategies align with business objectives and market trends.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• · Category Strategy Development o Develop and implement procurement strategies for assigned categories aligned with organizational goals o Analyse market trends, supply/demand dynamics, and supplier landscapes
• · Supplier Relationship Management o Identify, evaluate, and manage key suppliers to ensure quality, delivery, and cost objectives are met. o Lead supplier negotiations, performance reviews, and relationship management initiatives.
• · Sourcing & Contracting o Lead RFx processes (RFI, RFP, RFQ) for sourcing initiatives. o Negotiate and manage contracts, ensuring commercial terms, SLAs, and KPIs are aligned with company requirements.
• · Stakeholder Engagement o Act as the procurement lead and subject matter expert for assigned categories. o Collaborate with business units, legal, finance, and technical teams to define procurement requirements and ensure alignment
• · Cost Management & Savings Delivery o Deliver cost savings and value creation through strategic sourcing, demand management, and supplier innovation. o Track and report savings and procurement performance metrics
• · DTRW o Drive sustainability initiatives within suppliers which reduce environmental impact & support the brands commitment to Good Growth
• · Risk & Compliance Management o Identify and mitigate category-specific risks including supply chain disruptions and non-compliance o Ensure adherence to procurement policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements

EXPERIENCE

• · 5+ years' experience in strategic procurement, category management, or supply chain.
• · Proven experience in developing category strategies and managing end-to-end sourcing processes.
• · Strong negotiation, contract management, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• · Commercial and financial acumen.
• · Experience in multinational or matrix organizations.
• · Knowledge of ESG/sustainable procurement practices.
• · Professional certifications (e.g., CIPS, CPSM, PMP).