Category Manager

Join a forward-thinking public sector organisation with a strong reputation for professionalism and quality service delivery. You’ll be part of a supportive and collaborative team, with a culture that encourages innovation and continuous improvement. Flexible and hybrid working arrangements are available to support a healthy work-life balance. This is an exciting time to join, with a significant restructure underway that will bring about the creation of a larger organisation, offering wider opportunities for career development. The Role You will play a key role in delivering compliant and value-driven procurement activities across goods, services, and works. Key responsibilities include: Managing end-to-end procurement processes Supporting category management and spend analysis Developing sourcing strategies Leading contract negotiations Managing supplier performance and relationships Supporting contract implementation and monitoring About You We are looking for a motivated procurement professional with: Public sector procurement experience Strong understanding of procurement processes and compliance Excellent stakeholder engagement skills A proactive and solutions-focused approach CIPS qualification preferred / Level 4 or above What’s on Offer Generous annual leave plus bank holidays Public sector pension scheme Flexible and hybrid working Professional membership support Health and wellbeing benefits Cycle-to-work scheme Retail and lifestyle discounts

We are seeking a Category Manager to lead category strategy, sourcing, and supplier management across renewable and energy infrastructure spend. This role is suited to candidates with strong procurement experience and transferable expertise. Purpose of the Role You will lead procurement delivery across renewable and low‑carbon energy systems, including: District heating and heat networks Energy centres and heat interface units (HIUs) Thermal storage solutions Solar PV and battery energy storage (BESS) High-voltage and electrical infrastructure Emerging renewable and hybrid technologies You will ensure safe, compliant, and cost-effective delivery aligned to operational, commercial, and regulatory objectives, while supporting long-term growth and sustainability goals. Working closely with Delivery, Engineering, Design, Commercial and Finance teams, you will act as a commercial partner—driving procurement excellence, strong governance, and supplier innovation. Key Responsibilities Category Strategy & Sourcing Develop and implement multi-year category strategies aligned to growth and net zero targets Lead sourcing activity (RFPs, RFQs, negotiations) across renewable systems and services Conduct market analysis, benchmarking, and supply chain risk assessments Supplier & Contract Management Manage strategic supplier relationships across renewable and technical sectors Oversee contract lifecycle, including KPIs, performance reviews, and renewals Drive value across frameworks, EPC contracts, and technical agreements Stakeholder Collaboration Partner with technical and operational teams to understand requirements and delivery challenges Translate complex needs into effective procurement strategies Governance & Risk Ensure robust controls across contracts, spend, and compliance Monitor supplier performance across safety, delivery, financial and regulatory measures Sustainability & Innovation Promote low-carbon solutions and sustainable procurement practices Encourage innovation to support evolving energy systems and infrastructure About You You are a commercially astute procurement professional with a passion for sustainability or renewable energy. Experience in the sector is desirable but not essential—transferable skills and the ability to operate in complex environments are key. Essential: Proven experience in category management or strategic procurement Strong commercial and negotiation skills Experience managing complex supplier relationships and contracts Analytical mindset with strong problem-solving capability Qualifications: CIPS Level 5 (or working towards) Skills & Attributes: Strong stakeholder management across all levels Organised, detail-focused, and delivery-driven Able to work independently and cross-functionally What’s on Offer Competitive salary with annual review Up to 10% employer pension contribution 33 days holiday + option to buy more Enhanced family leave Hybrid working Development and progression opportunities Employee referral bonus Why Apply? This is a high-impact opportunity to apply your procurement expertise in a growing, purpose-driven sector. If you’re a Category Manager or Senior Buyer ready to step into a strategic role—regardless of whether your experience comes directly from renewables—this role offers real scope to influence change and support the transition to a low-carbon future.

Location: Between Bury St Edmunds & Stowmarket (Hybrid) Are you a commercially driven procurement professional with experience in construction or infrastructure supply chains? This is an opportunity to take ownership of a critical category, delivering safe, compliant, and cost-effective construction services within a complex, regulated environment. We are seeking a Category Manager – Outsourced Construction to lead procurement strategy, sourcing, and supplier management across externally delivered construction works. This role suits candidates with strong experience in construction, civil engineering, utilities, or infrastructure procurement, including managing subcontractors, frameworks, and major delivery partners. The Role You will take full accountability for the outsourced construction category, including: Civil engineering works Utilities installation Reinstatement and street works Jointing and metering services Specialist subcontractors and multi-utility partners Acting as a commercial business partner to senior stakeholders across Construction, Engineering, Design, Commercial, and Finance, you will drive procurement excellence, robust governance, and high-performing supplier partnerships. Key Responsibilities Category Strategy & Sourcing Develop and implement multi-year category strategies aligned to business growth Lead end-to-end sourcing (RFPs, RFQs, negotiations) Conduct market analysis, benchmarking, and risk assessments Supplier & Contract Management Manage strategic supplier relationships Oversee contract lifecycle, KPIs, and performance reviews Optimise commercial value across frameworks and major contracts Stakeholder Partnership Collaborate with operational and technical teams to meet programme needs Translate requirements into effective procurement solutions Governance & Risk Ensure strong controls over spend, contracts, and compliance Monitor supplier performance (H&S, regulatory, financial, delivery) Sustainability & Innovation Drive sustainable procurement, carbon reduction, and social value Encourage supplier innovation and continuous improvement About You A commercially astute procurement professional who thrives in a fast-paced, stakeholder-led environment. Essential: Proven experience in category management or strategic procurement Strong background in construction, civil engineering, utilities, or infrastructure (preferred) Expertise managing complex supplier relationships and long-term contracts Proven negotiation, cost optimisation, and value delivery Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Qualifications: CIPS Level 5 (or working towards) Skills & Attributes: Excellent stakeholder management Highly organised with strong attention to detail Able to work independently and cross-functionally Desirable: Degree or postgraduate qualification Experience within utilities or regulated environments What’s on Offer Competitive salary with annual review Up to 10% employer pension contribution 33 days holiday + option to buy more Enhanced family leave Hybrid working Clear development pathways Referral bonus scheme Why Apply? This is a high-impact role with real scope to shape supplier strategy and influence large-scale project delivery. Ideal for a Category Manager or Senior Buyer ready to step up, you’ll play a key role in delivering safe, efficient, and high-quality outcomes across a growing infrastructure environment.

Location: Between Bury St Edmunds & Stowmarket (Hybrid) Are you a commercially driven procurement professional with experience in construction or infrastructure supply chains? This is an opportunity to take ownership of a critical category, delivering safe, compliant, and cost-effective construction services within a complex, regulated environment. We are seeking a Category Manager – Outsourced Construction to lead procurement strategy, sourcing, and supplier management across externally delivered construction works. This role suits candidates with strong experience in construction, civil engineering, utilities, or infrastructure procurement, including managing subcontractors, frameworks, and major delivery partners. The Role You will take full accountability for the outsourced construction category, including: Civil engineering works Utilities installation Reinstatement and street works Jointing and metering services Specialist subcontractors and multi-utility partners Acting as a commercial business partner to senior stakeholders across Construction, Engineering, Design, Commercial, and Finance, you will drive procurement excellence, robust governance, and high-performing supplier partnerships. Key Responsibilities Category Strategy & Sourcing Develop and implement multi-year category strategies aligned to business growth Lead end-to-end sourcing (RFPs, RFQs, negotiations) Conduct market analysis, benchmarking, and risk assessments Supplier & Contract Management Manage strategic supplier relationships Oversee contract lifecycle, KPIs, and performance reviews Optimise commercial value across frameworks and major contracts Stakeholder Partnership Collaborate with operational and technical teams to meet programme needs Translate requirements into effective procurement solutions Governance & Risk Ensure strong controls over spend, contracts, and compliance Monitor supplier performance (H&S, regulatory, financial, delivery) Sustainability & Innovation Drive sustainable procurement, carbon reduction, and social value Encourage supplier innovation and continuous improvement About You A commercially astute procurement professional who thrives in a fast-paced, stakeholder-led environment. Essential: Proven experience in category management or strategic procurement Strong background in construction, civil engineering, utilities, or infrastructure (preferred) Expertise managing complex supplier relationships and long-term contracts Proven negotiation, cost optimisation, and value delivery Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Qualifications: CIPS Level 5 (or working towards) Skills & Attributes: Excellent stakeholder management Highly organised with strong attention to detail Able to work independently and cross-functionally Desirable: Degree or postgraduate qualification Experience within utilities or regulated environments What’s on Offer Competitive salary with annual review Up to 10% employer pension contribution 33 days holiday + option to buy more Enhanced family leave Hybrid working Clear development pathways Referral bonus scheme Why Apply? This is a high-impact role with real scope to shape supplier strategy and influence large-scale project delivery. Ideal for a Category Manager or Senior Buyer ready to step up, you’ll play a key role in delivering safe, efficient, and high-quality outcomes across a growing infrastructure environment.

Supply Chain Manager We are working in partnership with a highly innovative and fast-growing organisation to recruit an experienced Supply Chain Manager. This is a key leadership role responsible for developing and optimising end-to-end supply chain operations, driving cost efficiencies and ensuring high-quality, on-time delivery across a global supplier network. This is an excellent opportunity for a proactive individual to play a pivotal role in shaping supply chain strategy within a dynamic, growth-focused environment. The Role As Supply Chain Manager, you will take full ownership of procurement, materials planning and supplier development activities, ensuring alignment with business objectives and future growth plans. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including design, production, sales and operations, ensuring materials and services are sourced effectively to support both ongoing production and new product introduction. The position also carries international responsibility, providing governance and support across multiple sites. Key Responsibilities Develop and implement a forward-thinking supply chain strategy to support operational and commercial goals Build and manage strategic supplier relationships, ensuring quality, cost-effectiveness and performance Lead procurement and materials planning activities to ensure timely availability of parts and services Introduce and manage dual sourcing strategies to reduce risk and optimise cost Oversee supplier audits, compliance, performance management and quality reviews Manage day-to-day supply chain operations, including stock control, logistics and invoice resolution Drive continuous improvement across systems, processes and team capability Work closely with design teams to source new materials and components Support production with outsourced manufacturing solutions during peak demand Collaborate with sales teams on forecasting and costing for tenders Manage logistics operations and associated budgets across multiple regions Lead S&OP processes and support the creation of a Master Production Schedule (MPS) Provide leadership and development to direct reports About You Proven experience in a Supply Chain Management role within a process-driven environment Strong expertise across procurement, materials planning and supplier development Demonstrated experience managing and developing teams Experience working with global suppliers and international logistics Knowledge of MRP/ERP systems (Sage experience advantageous) Strong organisational, communication and stakeholder management skills Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities effectively A proactive mindset with the ability to lead projects and drive change Key Attributes Commercially aware and driven A customer-focused approach, with a commitment to delivering value Strong collaboration skills, working effectively across teams and partners A commercially minded and entrepreneurial outlook A continuous improvement mindset, striving for operational excellence Respect for diverse perspectives and a commitment to inclusive working practices What’s on Offer Opportunity to join a growing, forward-thinking business A strategic role with real influence over supply chain direction Exposure to international operations Collaborative and innovative working environment Apply Now or call the Reed Southampton office for more details.

IT Category Manager An established utilities provider is seeking a strategic and forward-thinking procurement professional to take ownership of its IT category. This role offers the opportunity to shape category strategy, deliver commercial value and support the evolution of IT services across a regulated environment. You will lead end-to-end category management activity, identifying opportunities to drive efficiency, manage commercial risk and enhance supplier performance. Working closely with stakeholders, you will provide market insight and commercial expertise to inform sourcing decisions and long-term planning. This is a key position within the procurement function, playing a central role in delivering value-driven, compliant and sustainable IT procurement solutions. Key Responsibilities Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of procurement processes and best practices across the full commercial lifecycle Build strong, trusted relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers, with the ability to influence at a senior level Deliver a high standard of service, ensuring clear, proactive and effective communication throughout all procurement activities Drive continuous improvement in procurement operations to enhance efficiency and service delivery Manage strategically significant IT spend, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives and effective risk management Develop and implement category and demand strategies by engaging with stakeholders to understand business requirements Lead sourcing activities including tendering, supplier negotiations and contract awards, ensuring value for money and total cost optimisation Identify and deliver cost-saving opportunities through standardisation, aggregation and reduction of fragmented spend Ensure compliance with relevant procurement regulations, legal requirements and data protection standards Embed health, safety and wellbeing considerations into sourcing strategies and supplier selection processes About You Essential Ability to analyse and communicate complex commercial and contractual information to diverse audiences Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple priorities and workstreams Proven negotiation, influencing and problem-solving capabilities Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills with a customer-focused approach Self-motivated and resilient, with a proactive attitude towards personal development Experience within IT procurement, category management or a related supply chain discipline Exposure to strategic sourcing within a multi-stakeholder or cross-functional environment Demonstrated ability to deliver against ambitious targets Desirable Strong commercial and contractual acumen Experience within a regulated procurement environment (e.g. utilities or public sector frameworks) Relevant professional qualification such as CIPS or equivalent Project management experience or formal certification Benefits 27 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays Pension scheme with enhanced employer contributions Performance-related bonus Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance Enhanced family leave policies Life assurance cover Access to private medical insurance Employee assistance programme and virtual GP services Retail discounts Electric vehicle and cycle-to-work schemes For further information, please call the Reed Southampton branch or Apply Now.

Packaging Buyer Location: South Manchester Salary: £40,000 – £45,000 (depending on experience) Hours: Full-time, Monday–Friday (40 hours) The Opportunity An established and growing food manufacturing business is looking to appoint a Packaging Buyer to join its procurement team. This is a key operational role, ensuring the consistent supply of packaging materials to support production while delivering strong commercial value and maintaining high quality and compliance standards. You’ll collaborate across multiple departments including Production, Planning, Technical, and Commercial teams, playing a central role in supplier management, cost control, and continuous improvement initiatives. Key Responsibilities Manage the sourcing and purchasing of packaging materials such as films, labels, cartons, sleeves, and cases Ensure materials are available in line with production schedules and stock requirements Raise and manage purchase orders while maintaining accurate data within ERP systems Develop and maintain effective supplier relationships, ensuring high service levels and reliability Negotiate pricing, contracts, and lead times to achieve cost efficiencies Monitor supplier performance, including quality, delivery, and responsiveness Mitigate supply risks through contingency planning and alternative sourcing strategies Work closely with technical teams to ensure compliance with food safety, legal, and customer requirements Maintain accurate packaging specifications and supplier documentation Support new product launches and packaging changes, including artwork updates and trials Align purchasing activity with demand forecasts and production planning Track usage trends to optimise stock levels and reduce waste Contribute to sustainability initiatives, including reducing environmental impact and improving recyclability Identify and drive continuous improvement opportunities across packaging and supply processes About You Experience in a procurement or buying role, ideally within FMCG or food manufacturing Strong negotiation skills and commercial awareness Experience purchasing packaging materials is highly advantageous Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities Comfortable working cross-functionally with internal teams and external stakeholders Strong analytical skills with attention to detail, particularly around specifications and compliance Good working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems and Excel Understanding of packaging regulations and industry standards Ability to interpret forecasts and translate them into effective purchasing plans Personal Attributes Proactive and solutions-oriented Calm and decisive in a fast-paced environment Strong communicator with the ability to influence stakeholders High level of accountability and ownership Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on efficiency and cost control What’s On Offer Competitive salary package Generous holiday allowance, increasing with service Additional leave for special occasions Health and wellbeing support Enhanced family leave policies Company pension scheme Employee perks and engagement initiatives On-site parking ​​​​​​​Apply Now If you’re a driven procurement professional looking to make a real impact in a growing manufacturing environment, we’d love to hear from you - please contact Adam Norris or Callum Jackson at Reed.

Packaging Buyer Location: South Manchester Salary: £40,000 – £45,000 (depending on experience) Hours: Full-time, Monday–Friday (40 hours) The Opportunity An established and growing food manufacturing business is looking to appoint a Packaging Buyer to join its procurement team. This is a key operational role, ensuring the consistent supply of packaging materials to support production while delivering strong commercial value and maintaining high quality and compliance standards. You’ll collaborate across multiple departments including Production, Planning, Technical, and Commercial teams, playing a central role in supplier management, cost control, and continuous improvement initiatives. Key Responsibilities Manage the sourcing and purchasing of packaging materials such as films, labels, cartons, sleeves, and cases Ensure materials are available in line with production schedules and stock requirements Raise and manage purchase orders while maintaining accurate data within ERP systems Develop and maintain effective supplier relationships, ensuring high service levels and reliability Negotiate pricing, contracts, and lead times to achieve cost efficiencies Monitor supplier performance, including quality, delivery, and responsiveness Mitigate supply risks through contingency planning and alternative sourcing strategies Work closely with technical teams to ensure compliance with food safety, legal, and customer requirements Maintain accurate packaging specifications and supplier documentation Support new product launches and packaging changes, including artwork updates and trials Align purchasing activity with demand forecasts and production planning Track usage trends to optimise stock levels and reduce waste Contribute to sustainability initiatives, including reducing environmental impact and improving recyclability Identify and drive continuous improvement opportunities across packaging and supply processes About You Experience in a procurement or buying role, ideally within FMCG or food manufacturing Strong negotiation skills and commercial awareness Experience purchasing packaging materials is highly advantageous Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities Comfortable working cross-functionally with internal teams and external stakeholders Strong analytical skills with attention to detail, particularly around specifications and compliance Good working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems and Excel Understanding of packaging regulations and industry standards Ability to interpret forecasts and translate them into effective purchasing plans Personal Attributes Proactive and solutions-oriented Calm and decisive in a fast-paced environment Strong communicator with the ability to influence stakeholders High level of accountability and ownership Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on efficiency and cost control What’s On Offer Competitive salary package Generous holiday allowance, increasing with service Additional leave for special occasions Health and wellbeing support Enhanced family leave policies Company pension scheme Employee perks and engagement initiatives On-site parking ​​​​​​​Apply Now If you’re a driven procurement professional looking to make a real impact in a growing manufacturing environment, we’d love to hear from you - please contact Adam Norris or Callum Jackson at Reed.

Interim Contracts Manager Location: UK (Hybrid/Remote options may be available) Contract Type: Interim / Temporary Sector: Public Sector Rate: £215 PAYE to £270 Umbrella About the Role We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Interim Contracts Manager to join our client. This is a key role supporting the negotiation, drafting, and management of complex contracts with purchasers and research collaborators. You will play an integral part in ensuring contractual arrangements are robust, compliant, and aligned with organisational and local requirements, while providing expert guidance to senior stakeholders. Key Responsibilities Lead and support the negotiation of contracts with purchasers and research partners on behalf of the client Draft, review, and execute contracts ensuring they meet professional standards Develop bespoke contractual agreements tailored to local operational needs Provide expert advice to Senior Managers on complex contractual and commercial issues Work autonomously on a broad range of contracts, with escalation support from the Senior Contracts Manager for highly complex matters About You Proven experience in contract drafting, negotiation, and management, ideally within public sector Strong understanding of commercial contract principles Ability to interpret and advise on complex contractual terms Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills Highly organised with the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment Why Join? Engage in meaningful work supporting patient care and research Flexible working arrangements (where applicable) Competitive interim rates

Interim Contracts Manager Location: UK (Hybrid/Remote options may be available) Contract Type: Interim / Temporary Sector: Public Sector Rate: £215 PAYE to £270 Umbrella About the Role We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Interim Contracts Manager to join our client. This is a key role supporting the negotiation, drafting, and management of complex contracts with purchasers and research collaborators. You will play an integral part in ensuring contractual arrangements are robust, compliant, and aligned with organisational and local requirements, while providing expert guidance to senior stakeholders. Key Responsibilities Lead and support the negotiation of contracts with purchasers and research partners on behalf of the client Draft, review, and execute contracts ensuring they meet professional standards Develop bespoke contractual agreements tailored to local operational needs Provide expert advice to Senior Managers on complex contractual and commercial issues Work autonomously on a broad range of contracts, with escalation support from the Senior Contracts Manager for highly complex matters About You Proven experience in contract drafting, negotiation, and management, ideally within public sector Strong understanding of commercial contract principles Ability to interpret and advise on complex contractual terms Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills Highly organised with the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment Why Join? Engage in meaningful work supporting patient care and research Flexible working arrangements (where applicable) Competitive interim rates