Location: Reading, West Berkshire
We are seeking a Category Manager with extensive experience in professional services to implement and execute Category Management, Strategic Sourcing, and Supplier Relationship Management for assigned categories. The ideal candidate will have at least 5+ years of experience (minimum 2–3 years) in category management within professional services, preferably with consultancy exposure. A broad understanding of professional services is essential, and experience in the public sector, defence, or highly regulated industries is desirable, particularly with knowledge of engineering and technology.
This is a predominantly remote working role, you may be required to attend infrequent office meetings.
Key accountabilities:
* Develop, implement and drive Category Strategy to deliver cost effective category solutions and business models for assigned categories.
* Supplier base management and supplier classification (Preferred Supplier List – PSL), securing competition in the supplier base.
* Implement ways of working according to the organisation’s Category Management Framework including the delivery of Category targets and KPI’s for assigned group of spend categories.
* Business Intelligence, suppliers benchmark and market insight to support category development.
Key requirements:
* Category Manager Experience in Professional Services – Ideally 5+ years (minimum 2–3 years), with consultancy exposure.
* Broad Professional Services Experience – Covers various service areas, including task-based vs. contingent scopes.
* Regulatory Knowledge – Understands off-payroll/IR35 guidance and governance processes.
* Stakeholder Management & Communication – Strong interpersonal and influencing skills.
* Problem-Solving & Decision-Making – A proactive ‘doer’ with the ability to challenge when needed.
* Resilience & Adaptability – Thrives in complex, high-pressure environments.
* Public Sector Experience (Desirable) – Public sector, defence, or highly regulated industries, with an understanding of engineering and tech.
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