Category Manager – Procurement (Professional Services)

TL;DR

Category Manager – Procurement (Professional Services): Leading the global procurement of professional services for internal teams (Finance, HR, Legal) with an accent on tender management and contract negotiation. Focus on optimizing supplier selection, mitigating supply chain risks, and driving continuous improvement to support global expansion.

Location: Hybrid (London), minimum of three days a week in the office

Company

An entrepreneurial business producing original and globally loved soft toys.

What you will do

• Lead the global procurement category for Professional Services, collaborating with Finance, HR, Legal, and IT teams.
• Manage the end-to-end tender process to ensure the selection of the highest quality suppliers.
• Engage in fact-based contract negotiations to secure favorable terms and conditions.
• Identify and evaluate new suppliers to enhance business capability and support global expansion.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance quality, efficiency, and effectiveness within the supply base.
• Monitor supplier performance and implement risk management practices to ensure business continuity.

Requirements

• Experience in Category Management specifically within the Professional Services space.
• Expertise in leading and executing robust tenders and supplier selection processes.
• Strong negotiation skills based on a fact-driven approach.
• Ability to manage complex supplier relationships to maintain high performance standards.
• Strong analytical skills and a creative approach to problem-solving.
• Must be based in or able to work from the London office at least 3 days a week.

Culture & Benefits

• Hybrid work model designed to support work-life balance.
• On-site private chef team providing subsidized buffet breakfast and lunch (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday).
• Premium health cover through Vitality, including optical and dental insurance.
• Life Insurance (4x basic salary) and a salary sacrifice pension scheme via Scottish Widows.
• 25 days paid holiday.
• Active social committee and comprehensive confidential support program through Health Assured.