Category Manager

We are currently seeking a Category Manager to join our team in Birchwood Park, Warrington (hybrid working with an expectation of at least one day a week in the office) however other locations could be considered. You will manage the procurement of contingent labour via our Managed Service Provider and will be responsible for the procurement of contracted out services and associated requirements. This is a key role to ensure we have the ability to deliver against client commitments while complying with all business and legal requirements including the IR35 regulations., Strategic Planning

• Collaborate with business stakeholders to develop category strategies, considering business plan requirements, strategic goals and emerging risks.
• Work with operational and capability teams to identify critical resource gaps and develop the most appropriate supply chain solutions.
• Develop and implement procurement strategies for contracted out services in consideration alongside market analysis, cost drivers and overall business objectives.
• Ensure compliance with IR35 regulations in accordance with the company stance and HMRC CEST tools.
• Provide specialist advice and guidance and to the wider procurement and operational teams on the options for the procurement of contracted out services.
• Work with other functions such as Talent Acquisition, HR and Security to ensure appropriate contracts are in place to manage associated services such as right to work and the provision of security clearances.
• Membership of the IR35 governance panel ensuring business process remain compliant with relevant regulations and playing a key role as the custodian of the process.
• Engage and influence stakeholders at all levels to maximise the impact of the Category Strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational goals.
• Lead and execute high value tenders in accordance with the Category Strategy, ensuring optimal outcomes for the company.
• Manage commercial negotiations, balancing demands of multiple stakeholders.
• Lead contract drafting and negotiation in collaboration with the Legal teams, ensuring compliance and mitigating risk for all labour-based contracts.
Supplier Management:
• Manage the relationship with our contingent labour Managed Service Provider to ensure continuous improvement, value for money and efficient business delivery.
• Develop and implement SRM activities in alignment with business objectives including Performance Reviews, monitoring of SLAs and KPIs and overall decision maker in the approved supplier list.
• Manage and optimise the supply base, utilising category manager tools to facilitate stakeholder buying power. Negotiate contracts and terms and conditions with suppliers of contracted out services to secure the best value for the company.
• Contract management of all associated contracts including supplier performance monitoring and support to dispute resolution.
Compliance:
• Ensure all procurement activities comply with business processes and IR35 regulations.
• Stay updated on changes in legislation and implement necessary adjustments
Risk Management:
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with labour procurement.
• Develop contingency plans to address potential disruptions.
Performance Monitoring:
• Track and report on supplier performance and contract compliance.
• Tracking of data and reporting, including Cost Savings and Cost Avoidance.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance service delivery.
  
  Bachelor's degree in business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is desirable.
• Professional certification (e.g., MCIPS) is desirable.
• Experience in procurement, with a focus on labour categories.
• Proven track record of managing supplier relationships and negotiating contracts.
• In-depth understanding of IR35 legislation and its implications.
• Strong knowledge of procurement best practices and market trends.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with the power to influence.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and strong stakeholder engagement.
• Ability to use standard procurement tools such as Oracle / SAP and also MS Office software including the use of excel or other tool to carry out basic data analysis.
  
  People are our greatest asset, and we offer a competitive package to retain and attract the best talent.
In addition to the benefits you'd expect, UK employees also receive free single medical cover and digital GP service, family-friendly benefits such as enhanced parental leave pay and free membership of employee assistance and parental programmes, plus reimbursement towards relevant professional development and memberships. We also give back to our communities through our Collectively program which incorporates matched-funding, paid volunteering time and charitable donations. Work-life balance and flexibility is a key focus area for us. We're happy to discuss hybrid, part-time and flexible working hours, patterns and locations to suit you and our business.