Global Category Manager jobs
Category management in the procurement field is overseeing the acquisition of certain classes of goods or materials, often those that are somehow interconnected or interdependent. In larger companies and/or those where sourcing is international, an additional layer of management, the global category procurement manager, might be inserted.
Depending on how advanced the existing procurement is, the global category manager might be required to develop an entire global category procurement strategy or manage the one that is already in operation within a set of guidelines. Either way, the aim will be to reduce costs to the company, which will be achieved by negotiating deals and rates with supplier, forming partnerships and constantly analysing the market in which he or she is working.
A general aim will be to reduce or limit costs wherever possible, both within the employing company through systems, staffing and prudent economising and through the act of procurement itself. The global category manager will have to implement a worldwide plan of action throughout the company. This can mean seeking to impose consistency internationally to meet the results of forecasting, planning and analysis. But it can also involve the exact opposite: tailoring different procurement strategies to the different market environments to take advantage of local efficiencies.
The skills required
Management level experience would be a prerequisite a job of this level, and many employers will demand a bachelor’s degree, MBA or other recognised business qualification. A proven ability to communicate ideas and complicated instructions to the team will be required, and only people with an analytical mindset will we able to cope with such work.
Owing to the international nature of the job, language fluency would be extremely useful, as would a willingness to work abroad, often for long periods. A thorough understanding of the market in which the company seeks to procure materials and goods will probably be requested too, although this could be counterbalanced by excellence in procurement in another field.
An ability to fully understand the implications of contracts, and possibly the ability to draw them up from scratch, will also be an essential personal ability.
Global Category Manager Jobs in Glasgow
Located on the River Clyde in the western region of Scotland, Glasgow is the largest city north of the border and has the third largest population in the UK.
Known predominantly for its industrial past, which included the production of items ranging from textiles, carpet, furniture, food and drink, through to explosives, chemicals and industrial machinery, Glasgow was known during the 19th century as the Second City of the Empire.
A quarter of all the world's locomotives at the time were manufactured in Glasgow, while the Clyde shipyards were bustling with workers creating seafaring vessels of every shape and size.
Over the last 200 years, Glasgow has changed significantly. Most of the shipyards are gone (although some are still in operation) and many of the factories have been replaced with world-class shopping and high-end accommodation. Indeed, the city is ranked as one of Europe's top financial centres and one of the most liveable cities in the world.
For those seeking Global Category Manager roles in Glasgow, there are plenty of opportunities, whether you're interested in manufacturing, retail, technology, biosciences, finance, education, media or transport.
Indeed, just some of the companies based in Glasgow include Clydesdale Bank, BAE Systems Surface Fleet Solutions, BBC Scotland, The Herald and John Dewar & Sons.
There's also the Port of Glasgow and Glasgow International Airport, and the city is home to four universities, a number of colleges and several sports teams, not to mention a variety of entertainment venues.
Popular locations
Cast UK’s procurement opportunities
Cast UK were founded by specialists in logistics, supply chain and procurement, and our consultants are also drawn from these backgrounds, so we know what employers and candidates are looking for when they come to us. In fact, employers often approach us to find managerial and executive candidates before they are advertised, so if you’re in procurement, we’d be delighted to hear from you.
Whether you’re relocating for personal reasons or are simply looking for more job fulfilment, there could well be an employer who’s looking for the skills you have. At any given time, Cast UK have jobs all over the UK, so wherever you live, or plan to live, we are well placed to find work that suits your skills.
To find out more about how Cast UK can help you recruit a Global Category Manager for your business or find you a job as a Global Category Manager then contact one of our consultant team on 0333 121 3345.
Contact us