Job Specifications
Ref: 511
Department: Supply Chain
Location: Derby, Manchester, Warrington
Employment type: Full-time
Salary: PS80,000 - PS100,000
Closing date: 29/09/2025
Role Related
Role: Head of Category
We anticipate paying a salary between PS80,000 - PS100,000 DOE
Locations: Derby, Manchester, Warrington
We are Rolls-Royce SMR and we're doing something that's never been done before. We're revolutionising an industry. That's 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 - Enterprise, we are recruiting for 3 Head of Category (in Site Works & Operations, Mechanical and Performance & Reporting). 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
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.
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.
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
Pay And Benefits
We anticipate paying a salary between PS80,000 - PS100,000 Dependant on Experience
Bonus - Short Term Incentive - Performance Based- target opportunity 20%
Benefits Allowance - PS8,500, enabling you to create a bespoke package
Pension - 12% employer and 6% employee contributions.
Holidays - 28 days holiday (+ public holidays) and the ability to buy or sell up to 4 days
Private Medical Insurance - BUPA single cover health care
Life Assurance - 6x pensionable pay
PS250 - One-off payment for new starters for home office purchases
Company Related
We are Rolls-Royce SMR
Rolls-Royce SMR is a rare employer because it blends the world-class brand of
About the Company
Climate change and its consequences are one of the greatest challenges ever to face mankind. The global challenge around decarbonisation is huge.
At Rolls-Royce SMR, our vision is simple – we want to provide clean, affordable energy for all.
A new approach to delivering nuclear power
Our Small Modular Reactor is an integrated power station, that takes well understood, existing nuclear technology and applies a factory-based philosophy to its fabrication and assembly.
This repeatable, standardised approach generates hu...
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