Procurement Category Manager

About Global Marine Group: Is a leading independent provider of subsea fibre optic connectivity solutions offering a broad range of services including consultancy, subsea cable engineering, installation and maintenance, covering the lifespan of a subsea fibre optic cable system which is delivered to customers worldwide. Due to the organisation experiencing increased strategic and operation requirements we have a new opportunity for a Strategic Multi Category Manager on a fixed-term contract. The purpose of this role is to lead the strategic development of key procurement categories, ensuring the organisation maximises value, improves commercial outcomes, and strengthens supplier performance. Working closely with our Procurement team and the Head of Procurement, the Strategic Multi Category Manager will develop and execute comprehensive category plans that drive value creation, cost reduction, and operational efficiency. The role will also support procurement delivery, provide leadership in supplier relationship management (SRM), and oversee Charter Party Agreements (CPA), embedding best practice, governance, and continuous improvement across the procurement function. This role requires a highly strategic individual who can think ahead, identify opportunities, drive category direction and deliver long-term procurement plans.

Key Deliverables:

• Define and implement category strategies aligned with business objectives and procurement goals.
• Collaborate with Buyers and the Head of Procurement to ensure category plans are actionable and measurable.
• Lead strategic sourcing initiatives, including market analysis, supplier evaluation, and negotiation.
• Support procurement delivery through oversight of sourcing activities, contract execution, and supplier onboarding.
• Drive SRM activities, including supplier segmentation, performance reviews, and continuous improvement plans.
• Lead CPA activities to ensure commercial performance is tracked, reported, and optimised.
• Identify and deliver cost reduction opportunities without compromising quality or service.
• Develop and maintain category dashboards and reporting tools to monitor performance and compliance.
• Ensure procurement policies and procedures are followed and continuously improved.
• Provide guidance and support to Buyers on strategic procurement matters.
• Engage with internal stakeholders to understand business needs and align procurement strategies accordingly.
• Support risk management and mitigation strategies across the supply base.
• Champion procurement excellence and innovation across the organisation.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelors degree in Business, Engineering or in a related field or related certification (e.g. CIPS, MCIPS or working towards).
• At least minimum of 7 years' experience in strategic procurement or category management.
• Proven track record of developing and delivering category strategies.
• Strong commercial acumen and negotiation skills.
• Experience in SRM and performance management frameworks.
• Ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Excellent analytical, negotiation and problem-solving skills.
• Strong understanding of contract law and commercial terms.
• Experience in managing complex procurement projects.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel and PowerPoint.
• Willingness to travel nationally and internationally as required.
• Ideal: Experience in the marine, offshore renewables, or oil and gas sectors.
• Familiarity with CPA frameworks and procurement analytics.
• Experience in international procurement and global supply chains.
• Knowledge of sustainability and ESG considerations in procurement.
• Experience with procurement systems (e.g., IFS, Etc).

Location: This role is based in our North East office, Washington, UK and follows a hybrid working arrangement, with working 3 days in the office and 2 days working remotely each week. First stage interviews will be held early January 2026. To ensure our organisation complies with immigration rules, all candidates must provide evidence of their Right to Work in the UK when applying. Unfortunately, we are unable to sponsor candidates and on Graduate visas.

Employee Benefits Group Pension with access to Independent Financial Advisor Life Cover – inclusive with Group Pension Plan Private Medical Insurance and Medicash Plan Dental Scheme – at a subsidised cost Fitness Club Subsidy X2 Professional Subscriptions Cycle Scheme – As per the green initiative, approved by the Government scheme Eye Sight Test contribution Perkbox - employee discount scheme along with a Wellness Hub Enhanced Maternity and Paternity pay 25 days Annual Leave Option to purchase an additional 5 days annual leave per year Long Service Awards Reward & Recognition Referral programme Employee Assistance programme 3 paid volunteer days Free on-site parking - At all sites Global Marine Group are committed to making our recruitment process accessible and inclusive for everyone. If you require reasonable adjustments for your interview, please reach out to during your recruitment process. We are more than happy to accommodate your needs to ensure you have the best possible experience during the selection process.