Category Buyer

Strategic Procurement Manager- BakeryA fantastic opportunity has arisen for an experienced procurement professional to join a successful, food manufacturing business.This position offers the chance to play a key role in developing and embedding best-in-class procurement practices across a broad range of direct spend categories. Working closely with senior stakeholders throughout the business, you will drive sourcing activity, deliver commercial value, strengthen supplier relationships and help elevate procurement's influence across the organisation.This is an ideal opportunity for someone who enjoys variety, wants genuine visibility within a business and is motivated by creating improvements rather than simply maintaining existing processes.The RoleReporting into the MD, you will lead a wide range of strategic sourcing and category projects across indirect spend.The role will be project-focused, managing opportunities across multiple categories and supporting the continued development of procurement capability across the business.Key ResponsibilitiesLead strategic sourcing and tender processes across direct spend categories.Develop and implement category strategies that deliver commercial value and operational improvements.Negotiate supplier agreements and manage key supplier relationships.Identify opportunities for cost reduction, value improvement and risk mitigation.Partner with stakeholders across operations, engineering, finance and commercial functions.Drive procurement best practice, governance and compliance.Deliver savings targets while supporting wider business objectives.Monitor supplier performance and ensure continuous improvement.About YouWe are looking for a commercially minded procurement professional who can combine strategic thinking with a hands-on approach.You will ideally have:Proven experience within procurementExperience gained within FMCG, food manufacturingStrong sourcing, negotiation and contract management skills.The ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.Experience managing multiple spend categories.Excellent analytical, commercial and relationship-building skills.A proactive and self-motivated approach with the ability to work independently.What We're Looking ForThe successful candidate will be:A strategic thinker who enjoys solving complex business challenges.Comfortable operating in a fast-paced environment where priorities can change.Confident building credibility with stakeholders across multiple functions.Naturally curious and driven to identify opportunities for improvement.Passionate about delivering tangible commercial results.