category manager

Posting date:	22 September 2025
Salary:	Not specified
Additional salary information:	Competitive
Hours:	Full time
Closing date:	22 October 2025
Location:	noodle hq 5-7 marshalsea road, se1 1ep
Company:	inploi
Job type:	Permanent
Job reference:	75743865

Summary

we are looking for an experienced category manager to join our procurement team!

the categories you are responsible will be dependent on experience and can include Asian Grocery, Desserts & Ice Cream, IQF Vegetables/Fruit, and Recipe Dish

This role is integral to ensuring cost-effective procurement strategies and maintaining high standards for our restaurants.

Category Management:

Sourcing and Procurement:

• Manage the procurement process for designated food categories.
• Develop and implement category strategies to optimize costs and supplier performance.
• Identify and negotiate with suppliers to secure the best prices and terms.

Supplier Management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing suppliers.
• Monitor supplier performance and address any issues promptly.

Contract Negotiation and Management:

• Negotiate contracts ensuring optimal terms, pricing, and service levels.
• Contract management, ensuring compliance and managing renewals and amendments effectively.

Cost Control:

• Implement strategies to manage and reduce product inflation.
• Conduct regular spend analysis to ensure budget adherence and identify areas for improvement.

Project Management:

• Lead multiple procurement projects, ensuring timely and successful completion.
• Coordinate with development teams to align procurement activities with project timelines.

Risk Management

• Identify and mitigate risks associated with the procurement of goods and services.
• Develop contingency plans to manage supply chain disruptions.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand their needs and expectations.
• Provide regular updates and reports to senior management on procurement activities and outcomes.

Sustainability and Innovation:

Sustainable Sourcing:

• Develop and implement strategies to source sustainable products.
• Ensure suppliers comply with sustainability standards.

Brand Development:

• Support brand and menu development by sourcing innovative products.
• Work closely with marketing and development teams to meet brand objectives.

Skills and Competencies:

• Highly numerate with strong analytical capabilities to perform spend analysis, market research, and supplier performance evaluations.
• Proficient in using IT systems and procurement software.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact with suppliers, stakeholders, and team members.
• Ability to present information clearly and persuasively.
• Strong negotiation skills to achieve the best terms with suppliers.
• Effective project management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Ability to think strategically and solve complex problems.
• Adaptable to changing priorities and capable of working in a fast-paced environment.
• Honest and committed to personal and professional development.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• Professional certification (e.g., CIPS) is highly desirable.

Experience

• Proven track record in strategic purchasing or category management.
• Experience in managing food categories within a retail or hospitality environment is a plus.

what we can offer you

• competitive salary + 20% bonus potential + £300 per month car allowance
• flexible hybrid working (with option to work + eat from one of our restaurants!)
• modern offices + culture to be proud of
• £200 monthly wagamama food allowance — enjoy all your favourite dishes on us!
• private healthcare
• 3% pension contribution
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays — plenty of time to relax and recharge
• + further discounts across retail, hospitality & leisure — perks that make life sweeter
• Supporting you every step of the way! family-friendly pay: 26 weeks full pay + 13 weeks half pay for expectant or adopting parents