Retail Operations & Store Development Category Specialist

Retail Operations & Store Development Category Specialist: An Opportunity to Drive Strategic Procurement at Primark

Primark is seeking a dynamic and experienced Retail Operations & Store Development Category Specialist to join their thriving procurement team. This role offers a significant opportunity for a procurement professional to take ownership of key spend categories, shape strategic sourcing initiatives, and directly contribute to Primark's continued growth and success. If you are passionate about driving value, fostering strong supplier relationships, and working within a fast-paced, people-centric environment, this could be your next career step.

What This Opportunity Offers You:

• Strategic Impact: You will be at the forefront of developing and executing procurement strategies for critical retail operations and store development categories. This is a chance to move beyond transactional procurement and genuinely influence business outcomes.
• Career Development: This role provides a platform to hone your category management, strategic sourcing, and supplier relationship management skills. You'll be working within an evolved procurement operating model, collaborating closely with Global Business Services (GBS) offshore partners, and engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Value Creation: A core aspect of this role is identifying and leading initiatives that drive long-term cost efficiency and value creation. You'll leverage data and insights to build robust cost-saving plans and sourcing strategies, directly contributing to Primark's overarching cost efficiency program.
• Collaborative Environment: You'll be working within a supportive team of capable individuals, celebrated for their authentic selves. Primark emphasizes a culture where people come first, fostering an environment conducive to reaching your full potential.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Primark prioritizes employee well-being with a strong benefits offering, including healthcare, a pension plan, and the potential for a bonus. You'll also benefit from 27 days of leave (plus bank holidays and the option to purchase more), Tax Saver Tickets, access to a fitness centre, and a subsidised cafeteria.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Experience is Key: A minimum of 5 years of related experience in a procurement role is essential. Furthermore, strong experience in category management, developing strategic supplier partnerships, and knowledge of procurement processes, policy, and systems are highly advantageous.
• Stakeholder Management: The ability to establish and maintain strong relationships with both internal and external stakeholders is crucial. You will need to effectively engage and align with business stakeholders to ensure successful execution of sourcing plans.
• Dynamic and Agile Working: Primark operates in a fast-paced, matrixed environment. Candidates who thrive in dynamic settings, can adapt to changing market trends, and are comfortable with a degree of travel (up to 15%) will be well-suited for this role.
• Commercial Acumen: A solid understanding of financial, legal, and commercial contracts, along with knowledge of sustainability/CSR and ethical sourcing practices, will be vital for success in managing complex categories and supplier relationships.
• Digital Adoption: Primark encourages the adoption of digital tools and analytics. Demonstrating an ability to leverage these for insights, process efficiency, and spend transparency will be a significant advantage.

This role is an excellent opportunity for a procurement professional seeking to make a tangible impact within a globally recognized retail leader. If you're ready to take on strategic responsibility, drive significant value, and contribute to a company that truly values its people, we encourage you to explore this exciting opportunity.