Category Manager

About Next Step

Next Step connects top consulting talent with high-potential opportunities through smart, AI-powered matching. We partner with ambitious companies across sectors to place experienced professionals in roles where they can have a real impact. On behalf of a client in our partner network, we are currently looking for a Category Manager to join their team.

Our client is one of the UK's largest specialist retail groups, with 500+ stores and £1.2bn in annual revenue. The Procurement function manages over £300m of third‑party spend across marketing, logistics, technology, and facilities. The CPO is transforming the function from transactional buying into a strategic procurement operation.

As Category Manager, you will take end‑to‑end ownership of a defined spend category, developing the strategy, running sourcing processes, negotiating contracts, and managing supplier relationships. You will work closely with internal stakeholders to ensure procurement activity delivers measurable value.

• Develop and own the category strategy, including market analysis, supplier landscape mapping, and a multi‑year savings roadmap.
• Lead competitive sourcing processes including RFIs, RFPs, and contract negotiations.
• Manage key supplier relationships, conducting performance reviews and driving continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand requirements and build buy‑in for procurement decisions.
• Track and report on savings delivery, contract compliance, and supplier KPIs.

• 3–5 years of experience in procurement, category management, or strategic sourcing.
• Experience running end‑to‑end sourcing processes and commercial negotiations.
• Strong stakeholder management, comfortable engaging with senior internal clients and supplier leadership.
• Analytical, with the ability to build cost models and conduct spend analysis.
• CIPS qualified or working towards is desirable.

• Base salary of £50,000 – £65,000, depending on experience.
• Annual performance bonus.
• 25 days holiday and hybrid working from London.
• Pension, private health, and staff discount.

To be considered for this role, please create your profile at  Once your profile is complete, our matching system will evaluate your background against the role criteria and match you with the company if it's a strong fit. No cover letter required.

This role is listed by Next Step on behalf of our client. All applications are handled with confidentiality.