Category Manager

Overview

Lead tech procurement, develop category strategies, manage sourcing & contracts

Key Responsibilities

• category strategy
• sourcing process
• vendor management
• contract negotiation
• tech procurement
• spend analysis

Tasks

Responsibilities will include liaising with key business stakeholders, the internal Technology team, Technology Director & external vendors to identify opportunities & solutions that are innovative, scalable, fit for purpose and cost effective. This will require exceptional communication to internal stakeholders across the company at all levels, whilst maintaining a solid, governed foundation. As part of the relatively new wider Technology team, the role will form a central part of enablement at Ridge helping to change the way Technology is perceived and used across the business. Finally, the role will work closely and in collaboration with the wider, technology team internal to Ridge, business stakeholders and end users to support and promote procurement and sourcing at all levels. Excellent communication skills will be critical to successfully collaborate with all stakeholders and ensure success. A key deliverable for the successful applicant will be the creation of a clear category strategy defining cost control, scalability and the support of innovation. This will need to be done in conjunction with various business stakeholders, reviewing competitor and wider market trends and the Technology Director to ensure it is fit for purpose for both now and future -Develop and execute category strategies to deliver cost savings and long term value -Support broader procurement initiatives -Manage full lifecycle sourcing processes, including RFPs, RFQs, tenders, selection etc -Monitor supplier performance and manage key supplier relationships, driving service improvements -Work with IT and business leaders to understand requirements and align procurement strategy with goals -Ensure effective governance, contract management and risk mitigation across the supply base -Negotiate contracts and commercial agreements, ensuring compliance with policies and relevant regulations -Lead procurement activities for technology categories, including software, hardware, cloud services, telecoms and IT professional services. -Build and maintain strong relationships with technology vendors, suppliers and internal stakeholders -Analyse spend data and trends to identify opportunities for cost optimisation & risk reduction

Requirements

• procurement
• negotiation
• rfps
• cips
• technology
• stakeholder

What You Bring

We are looking for someone with a real passion for procurement & category management within Technology, who has the desire and willingness to learn and grow. We are interested in applicants who have established experience in Technology spend management, or people who are eager to grow into the role from relevant expertise. This person will play a crucial role within the wider Technology team, supporting the Technology Director and wider team to ensure our long term aspirations can be achieved through clear strategic partnerships and spend control. Responsibilities will cover both sourcing (working with vendors, quality assurance, requirements analysis) and non-technical (governance, risk, and compliance). Someone who isn’t afraid to get their sleeves rolled up and get into the detail will be a key trait. No two days will be the same! -Understanding of procurement best practices, compliance and risk management frameworks -Analytical and data driven approach, with strong problem solving skills -Excellent negotiation skills, with experience managing complex, high value contracts -Strong track record of running RFPs + RFQs and competitive tenders within IT categories -Commercial insight with the ability to prioritise cost savings and quality -Experience in supplier performance management and contract governance -Proven experience in procurement and category management, with specific expertise in technology -Stakeholder engagement, with the ability to influence at all levels of the organisation -Must drive and hold a full/clean UK driving licence - flexible to visit sites as required -Professional procurement qualifications (e.g., CIPS) - desirable

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About Ridge And Partners Llp

-Founded with a passion for delivering innovative, sustainable, and high-quality engineering solutions. -Known for its expertise in managing complex projects, from infrastructure development to large-scale residential and commercial constructions. -The company is renowned for its focus on delivering projects on time and within budget, with a strong track record of repeat business from long-term clients. -Key projects include iconic urban regeneration schemes, transportation networks, energy-efficient buildings, and water infrastructure improvements. -The firm prides itself on providing bespoke solutions tailored to the unique needs of each client, working seamlessly with architects, contractors, and stakeholders. -Ridge has carved a niche for itself by maintaining a deep technical understanding while also prioritizing collaborative partnerships with clients and communities. -The company's offices are strategically located across the UK, supporting projects both locally and nationally. -Ridge is committed to a forward-thinking approach, constantly adapting to the evolving demands of modern infrastructure, technology, and sustainability.

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