Purpose The Category Manager is responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies for the various categories across our Ire and UK sites. The role will lead various transformational&sustainability projects as part of a large companywide initiative. The successful candidate will be tasked with managing critical spend areas and managing internal and external stakeholders in a highly innovative fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) business. Please note the successful candidate must be able to travel up to 60% of the time. Key Responsibilities Leads negotiations to ensure business requirements&procurement objectives are met and supply relationships are maintained. Monitors procurement reporting systems to meet company requirements. Captures real savings and reports monthly. Tracks performance within each spend category and defines budgetary impact. Manages vendor selection and performance ensuring timely delivery of high-quality products while maintaining the highest code of ethics and conduct. Maintains strong cross-functional relationships between Procurement and other key functions (RD&A, Regulatory, Supply Chain, Operations, Finance, etc.). Manages categories that have a Medium/High level of complexity taking into account the scale, strategic importance, level of risk, bespoke, commercial model structure, number of suppliers and pricing variables within the responsible category. Utilizes a variety of tools and techniques to negotiate contracts, improve pricing and terms of purchase with suppliers and review new opportunities to make business savings. Ensures Raw Material supply continuity. Develops long-lasting relationships with Pilgrims Europe, ensuring their requirements are accounted for in category strategy. Builds the Procurement brand across Pilgrims Europe to ensure Procurement is seen as a strategic partner and value creator for Pilgrims Europe. Drives insight and improvements across cost, risk and value for Pilgrims Europe by delivering product and materials changes aligned to business objectives and identifying and delivering product and material optimization projects. Skills&Knowledge Successful track record of delivery in a procurement environment and proven success in a fast-paced FMCG environment. Experience in developing and implementing effective cost saving forecasting strategies across the full scope of the category. Complete ownership and understanding of the category, from the raw material specification to the end use in the factory. Proven track record of collaborating with Senior Leadership teams to future plan and drive success. Plan and scope out buying strategies for present and future requirements using forecasting and market analysis. Ownership for all financial budgets and return on investment growth within your category. Data analysis – the ability to take large amounts of data and summarize quickly. Skilled at being an influencer to drive best practice at all levels. Willingness to travel as and when necessary, up to 60%, as the role depends. This will include international travel. The company Pilgrim’s Europe produces some of the best-known and most iconic brands in the UK and Ireland, including Fridge Raiders, Rollover, Denny, Richmond, Oakhouse and Moy Park, alongside a diverse range of industry-leading own-label products in categories including fresh pork, lamb and chicken, working with all the major retailers and food service outlets. Our portfolio extends to authentic chilled and frozen ready meals, snacking ranges, added value and food service products. Across Pilgrim’s Europe, we combine 20,000 of the best people in the industry, united by a shared set of core values and a passion for producing the highest quality, most delicious and innovative food, which is enjoyed by millions of people in the UK, Ireland and Europe every day. J-18808-Ljbffr