Senior Corporate Services Category Manager

Job Title: Senior Corporate Services Category Manager

Location: Farnborough (3 days onsite per week)

Term: 6 Months

IR35: INSIDE

Day Rate: £DOE

Find out more about this role by reading the information below, then apply to be considered.

I am seeking a highly capable Senior Corporate Services Category Manager to take ownership of a diverse and high-value portfolio (~£100M spend) covering HR, Recruitment, Training, Professional Services, Legal, Marketing, and Travel. This is a strategic role supporting a key global People function, where you will operate as a trusted business partner to senior stakeholders, influencing decision-making and driving commercial value across the organisation.

This position is ideal for someone comfortable working in a fast-paced, ambiguous environment, with the confidence to challenge constructively, shape strategy, and lead complex sourcing initiatives at Director and CIO level.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category strategies across Corporate Services (with a focus on HR, Recruitment, and Training), using market insight and data to optimise value
• Build and maintain strong relationships with senior stakeholders, ensuring early engagement and alignment with business priorities
• Lead end-to-end sourcing activity including strategy development, tendering, supplier selection, and negotiation of high-value, complex contracts
• Draft procurement documentation, RFPs, and compelling commercial proposals
• Identify and manage category risks including supply chain resilience, financial exposure, and sustainability considerations
• Drive Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) to maximise supplier performance, innovation, and long-term value
• Support ongoing transformation initiatives, including transition from SAP Ariba to Oracle Fusion and development of a mature Source-to-Pay (S2P) model
• Contribute to continuous improvement across procurement processes, tools, and governance

About You

• Proven experience in strategic category management within Corporate Services or similar spend areas
• Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence and challenge at senior levels
• Comfortable operating in ambiguity, making sound commercial decisions in dynamic environments
• Experienced in leading complex tenders and negotiating high-value contracts xwzovoh
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex ideas clearly and persuasively
• Strong commercial acumen with a focus on delivering measurable business value
• Demonstrated ability to build collaborative relationships with both internal stakeholders and suppliers
• Resilient, adaptable, and proactive in driving change and continuous improvement

Skills & Experience

• Degree or equivalent professional experience
• MCIPS qualified (or working towards)
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a strategic procurement or category management role
• Experience working within a private sector, fast-paced environment preferred
• Practical knowledge of Source-to-Pay (S2P) systems and procurement technologies