Category Manager

Jackson Hogg Procurement division are pleased to be partnering with a global manufacturing organisation in Gateshead on the appointment of a Category Manager (Electronics) to join their team, initially on an 18 month contract basis. There could be an opportunity for this role to go permanent.

Within the role of Category Manager, there will be regular travel required on a monthly basis to Europe and the Far East. Due to this, there is autonomy on how working hours are scheduled with flexibility offered to work from home. There will not be a regular requirement to be based in the Gateshead site.

We are looking for someone with strong negotiation skills, excellent supplier relationship management and internal stakeholder management skills, as well as someone comfortable with global travel.

Our client are ideally looking for a December 2025 start date.

The Role:

• Define, implement, and roll out the purchasing strategy for the product categories
• Take responsibility for all supplier-related matters, including supplier selection, contract negotiations, and the conclusion of framework agreements.
• Ensure compliance with specifications, quality standards, and operational efficiency.
• Optimize Working Capital and continuously improve purchasing processes and efficiency.
• Conduct Quarterly meetings with key suppliers
• Strategic source new suppliers for categories
• Ensure that purchasing decisions consider ESG and sustainability criteria.
• Conduct regular supplier evaluations, audits, and further develop the supplier portfolio.
• Ensure the availability of services and operational resources for all locations.
• Involved in NPI tasks – to be involved in all commercial aspects; tendering, business case development, and ensuring supplier adheres to project lead times.
• Work closely with internal stakeholders on procurement-related projects.
• Mentor and coach colleagues to enhance internal procurement competencies.
• Support all locations in supplier-related matters related to the category.
• Report on KPIs, pricing developments, project results, and supplier performance.

The Person/Requirements:

• At least 5 years of experience in procurement/purchasing.
• Degree or equivalent qualification in a technical or commercial discipline.
• Experience in procurement within an international matrix organization.
• Proven experience in an industrial or service-oriented environment.
• Strong negotiation skills and assertiveness.
• Excellent networking and relationship management skills.
• Strong communication skills and an open, proactive approach to working with internal and external partners.
• Highly flexible and solution-oriented work approach.
• Ability to work across different departments and cultures.
• Available to travel within Europe and the EU.

Early application is highly recommended for this role. For more information, please contact Gemma Yeadon - Sector Lead | Procurement at Jackson Hogg Recruitment.