Senior Category Manager

Global University Systems

Senior Category Manager developing and executing procurement strategies at Global University Systems. Managing supplier relationships and ensuring cost-effective procurement across global and local scales.

Posted 5/9/2026full-timeLondon • 🇬🇧 United KingdomSeniorWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develop and execute procurement strategies for specific categories on a global and UK local scale
Manage supplier relationships and negotiate contracts
Ensure cost-effective procurement of goods and services while maintaining quality and compliance standards
Conduct market analysis and benchmarking to identify trends, opportunities, and risks
Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers based on quality, cost, and delivery performance
Lead contract negotiations with suppliers to achieve the best possible terms and conditions
Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality or service levels
Develop and manage the category project cost savings pipeline
Identify potential supply chain risks and develop mitigation strategies
Work closely with internal stakeholders and collaborate with in-country procurement teams

Requirements

What you’ll need

A degree or similar-level qualification in a relevant subject area
Working towards/obtained Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply MCIPS qualification (desirable)
Experience of using e-Procurement platforms and/or Procurement software
5+ years of relevant experience of working in procurement
Experience of working in a large international group (desirable)
Global category experience
Excellent negotiation and communication skills
A track record of effective stakeholder management
A strong entrepreneurial mindset and a resilient, can-do attitude
Strategic thinker with a proactive approach to problem-solving
Outstanding analytical and problem-solving skills with excellent attention to detail
Ability to work in fast paced environment, successfully managing multiple scenarios concurrently
Commercial and financial acumen with deep understanding of financial and business priorities
Supplier relationship management, including negotiation, contract management and networking skills
Highly organised with proficient project management skills
The ability to take the initiative, prioritise and manage multiple concurrent workstreams
Has personal and professional integrity
Working effectively in a cross-functional environment.

Benefits

Comp & perks

25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
Hybrid working
Contributory Pension Scheme - 5% personal contribution & 3% Company contribution
Private Medical Insurance (T&C's apply)
Season Ticket Loan (T&C's apply)
Eye Care Vouchers
Training & Development opportunities (T&C's apply)
Staff Discount Scheme - via My Rewards Hub
Employee Assistance Programme
Refer a Friend Scheme for staff members (T&C's apply)

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

procurement strategiessupplier relationship managementcontract negotiationmarket analysiscost-saving initiativese-Procurement platformsProcurement softwarecategory project cost savingssupply chain risk mitigationglobal category experience

Soft Skills

negotiation skillscommunication skillsstakeholder managemententrepreneurial mindsetresiliencestrategic thinkingproblem-solvingattention to detailorganisational skillsinitiative

Certifications

Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply MCIPS