Senior Category Business Manager

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Job Introduction
Senior Category Business Manager (12-Month Maternity Cover)

Location: Chertsey or London | Contract: 12-Month Maternity Cover

Looking for a role that fits your life, supports your growth, and accelerates your career? At Foodbuy Group, we put people first. We offer competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and a flexible, dynamic environment where you can thrive. This isn't just a job-it's an opportunity to make an impact and advance your career in procurement.
About the Role

We are seeking a Senior Category Business Manager to join us on a 12-month maternity cover contract. This is an exciting opportunity to drive commercial value for our Foodbuy Member & GPO businesses within the Foodbuy UK&I division.

In this role, you will lead client reviews, strategic tenders, and activation programs across Food, Retail, and SES categories. You will also collaborate with our Sales & Retention teams to ensure a clear operating model that meets our clients' commercial and non-commercial needs through procurement and supplier choices.

With £2bn+ in managed spend and ambitious growth plans, this role offers the chance to make a real impact and drive value in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities

✅ Commercial Value Delivery - Drive commercial targets through client sourcing, strategic procurement, and supplier negotiations.
✅ Team Leadership & Strategy - Define and implement team strategy, procurement priorities, and reporting processes, working closely with the Head of CBM.
✅ Client-Led Procurement - Lead client sourcing projects from business needs assessment and data analysis to sourcing strategy, supplier negotiations, and client presentations.
✅ Supplier & Manufacturer Partnerships - Activate and grow supplier and manufacturer commercial terms through procurement initiatives, switch programs, and sales activation.
✅ Marketing & Client Engagement - Work with the Marketing team to develop client-facing materials, supplier initiatives, and newsletters.
✅ Cross-Functional Collaboration - Partner with Category Development, Finance, Sales, and Culinary teams to drive profit and growth.
What We're Looking For

Category Expertise - Experience across Food, Retail, and SES categories, as well as working with wholesalers and distributors.
Commercial Acumen - Proven track record in driving commercial success, delivering results, and maximising procurement value.
Strategic Sourcing & Tendering - Expertise in leading complex sourcing projects, negotiating supplier agreements, and presenting to senior stakeholders.
Analytical Mindset - Strong data analysis skills to interpret complex information and make informed, strategic decisions.
Leadership & Team Management - Experience managing and developing teams, providing strategic leadership and guidance.
Problem-Solving & Adaptability - Ability to prioritise multiple demands, work in a fast-paced environment, and adapt to change.
Client-Centric Approach - Ability to balance client needs with business goals, influencing stakeholders and driving client satisfaction.
Why Join Foodbuy?

Competitive salary & benefits package
Flexible working environment
Career growth opportunities in a market-leading procurement organisation
Collaborative & innovative workplace

If you're a proactive procurement professional with expertise in strategic sourcing and category management, we'd love to hear from you!

Apply now and take the next step in your career with Foodbuy!