Head of Category

Rolls Royce SMR Ltd.; East Midlands; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative energy company is seeking a Head of Category to lead procurement efforts for specialized materials and services in the construction of low-carbon power plants. This role involves delivering on cost and quality objectives while building strong supplier relationships and driving cost reduction initiatives. Candidates should have a proven background in category management and negotiation, with strategic influence at senior levels. A flexible and supportive working environment awaits with opportunities for career growth.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Career growth opportunities

Inclusive work culture

Qualifications

• Proven track record in managing complex supply arrangements.
• Strong negotiation and strategic thinking skills.
• Experience in construction or manufacturing supply chains.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage procurement for specialized materials and services.
• Develop strong supplier relationships and monitor performance.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives and ensure legal compliance.

Skills

Complex category management

Negotiation skills

Strategic thinking

Supplier relationship management

Data-led decision making

Education

Relevant degree

Job description

Head of Category page is loaded## Head of Categorylocations: Derby, UK: Manchester, UK: Warrington, UKtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted 2 Days Agotime left to apply: End Date: January 30, 2026 (18 days left to apply)job requisition id: JR100521Department: Supply ChainLocation: Derby, Manchester, WarringtonEmployment type: Full-timeSalary: £80,000 – £100,000 (DOE)Role: Head of CategoryWe are Rolls-Royce SMR and we’re doing something that’s never been done before. We’re revolutionising an industry. This is a once-in-a-career opportunity for those excited by such a challenge. This is more than just a job; this is a legacy.Reporting to the Head of Procurement, we are recruiting for a Head of Category. This role is responsible for leading a team to deliver the procurement of specialised materials and services required in the build of a RR SMR powerplant using the principles of Category Management to source, manage, monitor and control a specific group of categories for the supply of direct materials and services for the RR SMR powerplant. It is responsible for leading a large team to deliver across the core procurement process.In enacting this role the individual will build strong supplier relationships, demonstrate and acquire market knowledge, leverage data and analytics to drive innovation and risk mitigation in their categories and negotiate deals for the business globally. They will lead a category team in sourcing, negotiating, and managing contracts for the goods and services that support power plant build.They must foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement within their remit across functions and develop a high performing team that is integrated with the business. They will monitor and assess supplier performance and adherence to business cost, schedule and quality objectives in support of customer requirements. They will drive cost reduction initiatives and negotiate favourable terms to achieve significant cost savings while maintaining quality and service. They will ensure all procurement practices comply with legal, ethical, and regulatory requirements and are sustainable across the product lifecycle.### Key Results & Achievements* Delivery on time and to cost of direct goods and services within their category for RR SMR fleet* Demonstrate value for money and cost saving across the product lifecycle and fleet deployment* A robust, collaborative and capable supply base that supports business objectives such as localisation* Demonstrate compliance with legal, regulatory, ethical and sustainable requirements* Implementation of all of the above### Key Selection Criteria* Knowledge of complex category management and procurement and able to demonstrate how they have used these skills to drive good supply outcomes, value for money and support business outcomes.* Proven track record in managing complex supply arrangements, contract management, and supplier relationship management. Able to demonstrate maintaining strong supplier relationships while ensuring compliance with organisational goals and budgets.* A leader with strong negotiation skills, strategic thinking, and data led decision making.* Construction or Manufacturing supply chain experience.* Strategic impact and influence at senior levels inside and external to the organisation. High ethical standards and integrity in all procurement practices.#LK-LK1You’ll be joining a forward-thinking organisation that values transparency, fairness, and innovation. We offer:• A flexible, inclusive, and supportive working environment. • Opportunities for career growth in a rapidly scaling business. • A culture that values diversity, innovation, and continuous learning.We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. Inclusivity is important to us, and as a Disability Confident organisation, we are committed to fair, supportive, and continually improving recruitment practices that ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive.Confidence can sometimes hold us back from applying for a job. But we'll let you in on a secret: there's no such thing as a 'perfect' candidate. If you feel you meet 75% of the requirements for this role, we would love to hear from you.Also, if you are considering a career move or a sector-jump, please get in touch – we welcome applications from people with transferable skills.**Our Application Process**Due to the safety regulations within the nuclear industry, applicants will be required to participate in additional screening. These are:• Obtaining Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance • Satisfactory completion of a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check • Satisfactory completion of a basic financial probity check.locations: 3 Locationstime type: Full timeposted on: Posted 30+ Days Ago**We are Rolls-Royce SMR**A career with Rolls-Royce SMR offers a unique opportunity to contribute to an exciting organisation delivering a transformational mission. Rolls-Royce SMR is a radically different approach to proven nuclear technology. Each Rolls-Royce SMR power station will generate 470MW of low-carbon energy - equivalent to more than 150 onshore wind turbines and enough to power a million homes for over 60 years. With its Rolls-Royce SMRs will play a vital role in supporting renewable energy by helping to overcome intermittency and ensure a stable, sustainable energy future. We’re proud to be one of the few employers that can genuinely say we’re a strengths-based organisation. Our people are here because of what makes them exceptional - and our role is to help them make the most meaningful contribution of their careers, doing work they love. We offer opportunities that go beyond traditional career paths. At Rolls-Royce SMR you can develop your career by exploring roles and challenges that align with your unique talents.**Our culture**At Rolls-Royce SMR, we are committed to ensuring that our teams reflect the communities we serve and that everyone can be themselves at work. We know that diverse teams are more innovative and get better results, and that our people can thrive and be more successful in truly inclusive cultures. Join us and help shape our culture. Find out more about our inclusion pledge. Rolls-Royce SMR is a place where everyone can grow, so whatever background you bring with you, please apply if this is a role that would make you excited to come into work every day and help shape our culture.You’ll be joining a forward-thinking organisation that values transparency, fairness, and innovation. We offer: • A flexible, inclusive, and supportive working environment. • Opportunities for career growth in a rapidly scaling business. • A culture that values diversity, innovation, and continuous learning. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. Inclusivity is important to us, and as a Disability Confident organisation, we are committed to fair, supportive, and continually improving recruitment practices that ensure everyone can thrive.**What we offer**At Rolls-Royce SMR, our reward offering is focused on recognising you for your efforts and motivate you to continue achieving. Our rewards and benefits scheme are designed for employees to have complete control. By providing complete autonomy, you can focus on what’s important to you. Whether it’s investments, insurances or wellbeing, it’s in your hands. Work is an activity, not a place. We understand due to commitments and lifestyle; the world of work has evolved beyond the 9 - 5. Whether its varied hours or hybrid working, our flexible working arrangements make it possible for employees to achieve a true work life balance. **Your career journey**At Rolls-Royce SMR, we don’t just want you to contribute, we want you to grow. We have