Category Manager

Severn Trent Plc; Coventry; On-site; GBP 40,000 - GBP 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading water management company is seeking a Procurement Lead for Laboratory Supplies and Services in Coventry. The role involves overseeing all procurement activities related to laboratory needs and ensuring alignment with sustainability goals. Ideal candidates will have experience in the procurement lifecycle, strong analytical and communication skills, and a proactive approach to relationship management. The team offers significant growth opportunities and diverse benefits including 28 days holiday, a competitive pension scheme, and dedicated training.

Benefits

28 days holiday + bank holidays

Annual bonus scheme

Leading pension scheme

Sharesave scheme

Dedicated training and development

Electric vehicle scheme

Family friendly policies

Two volunteering days per year

Qualifications

• Solid experience across the procurement lifecycle.
• Ability to lead commercial activities effectively.
• Experience in regulated environments is ideal.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Laboratory Supplies and Services procurement category.
• Manage relationships with stakeholders and suppliers effectively.
• Ensure responsible spending that meets customer needs.

Skills

Procurement lifecycle experience

Analytical skills

Strong communication

Relationship building

Proactive problem solving

Education

CIPS Level 5 (or willingness to obtain)

Tools

Procurement systems

Job description

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We’re excited to offer an opportunity to join our Procurement and Contract Management team as we deliver major investment plans for the future.

This period is marked by significant growth and innovation, positioning our team at the forefront of strategic decision-making that will shape the future of the business over the next five years.

As we focus on enhancing our commercial strategies, you’ll be part of a dynamic environment where your contributions directly influence key projects and initiatives. With a commitment to sustainability and efficiency, our team is integral to driving value and ensuring that we meet the evolving needs of our customers and stakeholders.

This is not just a job; it’s a chance to be part of a transformative journey that will impact our communities and the environment positively. If you’re looking to make a meaningful difference while advancing your career, now is the perfect time to join us!

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

We’re looking for someone to take the lead on our Laboratory Supplies and Services category — an area that plays a huge role in keeping our water safe, our science strong, and our operations running smoothly.

In this role, you’ll shape how we plan, buy, and manage everything we need for our in house laboratories as well as procuring outsourced analytical services. You’ll look ahead at what the business will need in the future, run sourcing activity that delivers real value, and make sure we’re working with the right suppliers who share our commitment to sustainability, quality and reliability.

You’ll work closely with people right across Severn Trent — from scientific teams who use the equipment, to operational colleagues who rely on it, to suppliers delivering it. You’ll help us spend customers’ money responsibly, reduce risk, and keep our supply chain resilient.

This is a great chance to make a meaningful difference while being part of an experienced and supportive Procurement and Contract Management Team who look after the whole commercial lifecycle for the business.

WHAT YOU’LL BRING TO THE ROLE

You’ll have solid experience across the procurement lifecycle and the confidence to lead commercial activity that delivers real value. You’ll be great at building relationships — with suppliers you can challenge and support, and with stakeholders you can influence and guide from the very start of the process.

You’ll be analytical, curious and comfortable turning data into clear insight that helps shape decisions. You’ll also be proactive and organised, able to work independently, solve problems quickly and keep things moving at pace. Strong communication skills are a must, as you’ll be presenting ideas, leading discussions and bringing people with you.

You’ll be confident using procurement systems and happy learning new tools as needed. Experience in a regulated environment is ideal, and knowledge of procurement related to laboratory and analytical equipment and services would be a real bonus. You’ll either have CIPS Level 5 or be ready to work towards it. Above all, you’ll bring a positive mindset, a commitment to sustainability, and a drive to make things better every day.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU

We’re a growing, Midlands based FTSE100 plc and welcome people from all walks of life, celebrating their individuality, as we know diverse minds, experiences and backgrounds help us to learn and better serve our customers and the communities we represent.

We have a range of benefits that recognise great work, and award-winning training to help you reach your potential. And we’ll also help you play your part in looking after the environment and the communities where we live.

With that in mind, here are just some of our favourite's perks that you’ll get being part of the Seven Trent family:

• 28 days holiday + bank holidays (and the ability to buy / sell up to 5 days per year)
• Annual bonus scheme (of up to £2,250 per annum based on company performance)
• Leading pension scheme – we will double your contribution (up to 15% when you contribute 7.5%)
• Sharesave – the chance to buy Severn Trent Plc shares at a discounted rate
• Dedicated training and development with our ‘Academy’
• Electric vehicle scheme and retail offers
• Family friendly policies (including, a year off fully paid maternity and adoption leave)
• Two volunteering days per year

WHAT’S NEXT

We can’t wait to hear from you.

Before you apply, you’ll need an updated copy of your CV and about five minutes to spare.

If your curiosity has peaked and you're wanting to find out even more, search #LifeAtSevernTrent on social media.

Ps. we’ll always let you know the outcome of your application after the closing date - so keep an eye on your phone and emails.