Category Manager

Global Category Manager

Cheshire, UK
Permanent, Full-Time

We are recruiting on behalf of a leading global manufacturer based in Cheshire, renowned for their innovation, engineering excellence, and investment in world-class production technologies.

They are seeking a Global Category Manager with deep procurement expertise across Capital Equipment, OEM Spare Parts, and Auxiliary Equipment. This high-impact, strategic role will support both global growth initiatives and the optimisation of the company’s existing manufacturing footprint across Europe and the US.

Key Responsibilities:

* Lead the end-to-end procurement strategy for Capital Equipment, OEM Spares, and Auxiliary Equipment in support of Greenfield developments and capacity expansion

* Deliver full Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) models to drive long-term value and present commercial data to stakeholders

* Manage Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) for your categories, ensuring supplier performance and innovation evolve with business and customer needs

* Oversee contract management, ensuring global suppliers meet SLAs and contracts reflect ongoing business priorities

* Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, and Operations to ensure technical and commercial alignment

* Evaluate machinery and suppliers from a mechanical/engineering perspective to ensure equipment quality and long-term operational efficiency

* Identify and mitigate risks across the capital equipment and spare parts supply chain, including quality, delivery, and cost issues

* Track and report on supplier KPIs and SLA performance, providing updates and recommendations to stakeholders

* Contribute to projects supporting business expansion and efficiency improvements across existing global operations

Key Skills and Experience:

* Proven experience in direct category procurement of Capital Equipment, OEM Spares, and Auxiliary Equipment within a manufacturing or industrial setting

* Strong knowledge of process equipment and mechanical systems used in manufacturing environments

* Comfortable reviewing technical specifications and evaluating equipment quality with suppliers

* Familiarity with TCO modelling, supplier performance management, and cost optimisation strategies

* Strong stakeholder engagement and experience working with global supply partners

* Skilled in contract negotiation, supplier development, and risk management

Objectives:

* Develop and implement global sourcing strategies that deliver measurable value

* Optimise the global supplier base and build high-performing, long-term partnerships

* Drive innovation and cost savings through lifecycle insight and proactive procurement planning

* Support international growth and help optimise the company’s existing production footprint

Candidate Profile:

* University degree in Procurement, Engineering, Supply Chain, or a related field

* CIPS or equivalent qualification preferred

* 5+ years' experience in procurement or category management within a manufacturing environment

* Experience sourcing from Europe and/or global emerging markets

* Willing to travel internationally (approximately once per month)

This is an opportunity to play a leading role in global sourcing strategy for high-value production equipment. You will directly influence operations, supplier performance, and the long-term success of a world-class manufacturer during an exciting phase of growth and transformation