Category Manager

My client, an innovation-led global technology company, have developed a broad range of products which reduce operational costs and maximise efficiency across the gaming, retail, kiosk, amusement and vending markets. With a reputation for excellence and a track record of developing products which improve the customer experience, are affordable, reliable and responsive to business and customer needs in a rapidly changing world. Established for over 30 years and with offices across 5 continents they are now looking to recruit an experienced Category Manager to join their Supply Chain Team in Greater Manchester.

Reporting to the Operations Director the Category Manager will be responsible for identifying and selecting the best suppliers, based on their potential to contribute, and to introduce vendor development programs to improve efficiency and quality whilst reducing costs.

Package Details:

• £40,000 to £50,000 Basic Dependent on Salary
• Flexible working hours across a 39-hour working week
• Enhanced Pension Contributions
• Healthcare, Dental and Life Assurance Schemes
• Electric Car Scheme
• Free Secure Parking

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyse and assess the essential skills, capabilities, and capacity of potential vendors, taking into account their competitive positioning.
• Use standard industry cost models and benchmarking analysis to ensure the selection of suitable suppliers aligns with the strategic sourcing strategy.
• Collaborate with Finance and business leaders to pinpoint and implement cost-saving measures aimed at lowering the overall cost of ownership
• Provide guidance and support to internal stakeholders, including engineering, planning, purchasing, and sales teams to develop sourcing strategies.
• To analyse markets across multiple business lines to organise and improve sourcing processes.
• Performing regular reviews of suppliers, implementing projects to drive the business forward.
• Provision of purchasing analysis reports to show spending amounts across different sectors and to highlight specific areas which require greater focus.

Requirements:

• Educated to a minimum Degree level in either Engineering, Supply Chain Management or Business Economics
• At least 5 years' experience in a similar role
• Previous, extensive experience within a manufacturing-based business, with exposure to working across various product lines and multiple components and parts.
• Proven Supply Chain Management and negotiation skills with strong technical and financial acumen and understanding
• An in-depth knowledge of working with LEAN tools and KPI's to aid improved business efficiency, costs, and quality control initiatives.
• Extensive experience of preparing and presenting detailed reports to highlight areas of the business where cost savings and improved reliability of supply can be achieved
• Ability and experience of managing multiple suppliers across a range of technologies