Category Manager – Purchasing Strategy Leader

About the role

We are looking for an experienced Category Manager to lead purchasing strategy, supplier performance and cost optimisation for a family‑owned building materials business. Reporting to the Operations Director, you will own procurement and cost estimating activities, ensuring stock availability and delivering measurable commercial value.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement purchasing strategies that support growth and operational goals.
• Lead, mentor and develop a high‑performing purchasing team.
• Negotiate contracts, pricing and commercial agreements with key suppliers.
• Build and maintain strategic supplier relationships while driving performance improvements.
• Monitor market trends, risks and opportunities to inform purchasing decisions.
• Ensure timely procurement of goods and services to meet business demand.
• Manage procurement budgets and deliver cost‑saving initiatives.
• Collaborate with Operations, Finance, Logistics and Product Development teams.
• Identify and introduce new suppliers, products and supply‑chain solutions.
• Drive continuous improvement across purchasing processes, policies and procedures.

Required profile

• Commercially astute with strong analytical and financial abilities.
• Proven experience in procurement or category management.
• Excellent leadership, communication and stakeholder‑management skills.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape purchasing strategy and influence business performance.
• Key leadership role with direct impact on commercial success.
• Supportive, collaborative environment in a growing family‑owned business.