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Reading, England, United Kingdom
Hybrid
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Customers & Products
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About the Role
The Global Procurement Category Manager – GI/II Base Oils leads the global sourcing and strategic sourcing strategy for one of Castrol’s most critical raw material categories, managing approximately $1 billion in annual spend across a complex international supplier base and global commodity market.
The role sits within the Global Procurement Base Oil team, working as part of a team of nine and reporting to the Global Procurement Base Oil Senior Manager. It plays a central role in securing competitive and resilient base oil supply for Castrol’s global blend plant network.
Accountable for defining and executing global category management and procurement strategy, the role leads negotiations with major base oil producers and energy companies while leading strategic supplier relationships across global and regional markets.
Operating at the centre of Castrol’s global supply chain, the role partners closely with manufacturing plants, supply chain, planning, finance and technology teams to align sourcing strategies with business priorities and ensure reliable supply in dynamic global commodity markets.
This is a high-visibility global procurement role suited to an experienced commodity sourcing professional who is comfortable managing complex supplier relationships and engaging senior stakeholders across a global organisation.
Role Accountabilities
Lead the global category management and strategic sourcing strategy for the Group I and Group II Base Oil categories, ensuring secure and competitive supply for Castrol’s global operations.
Manage approximately $1 billion in annual category spend, delivering commercial value while balancing market volatility and supply risk.
Develop and execute sourcing strategies across global and regional supplier bases within complex commodity markets.
Lead commercial negotiations and contracting with major global suppliers.
Build and manage strategic supplier partnerships through Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) and performance frameworks.
Monitor global supply markets and provide timely market intelligence, identifying emerging risks, opportunities and supplier innovation.
Partner closely with manufacturing plants, supply chain, planning, finance and technology teams to align sourcing strategies with operational priorities.
Support supply continuity and risk management through contingency planning and close collaboration with wider supply chain and trading teams.
Ensure strong procurement governance and compliance with corporate, regulatory and sustainability standards.
Drive improvement in category performance through rigorous analysis, customer engagement and procurement methodologies.
Skills and Experience
University degree or equivalent professional experience in a relevant commercial, technical or supply chain discipline.
Significant experience in global procurement, category management or strategic sourcing, ideally within raw materials or commodity supply markets.
Proven track record of developing and delivering global sourcing strategies, managing complex international supplier bases and delivering measurable commercial value.
Strong commercial and negotiation capability, including experience leading contract negotiations and supplier agreement management.
Experience operating in volatile commodity markets, balancing cost optimisation, supply security and long-term supplier relationships.
Experience applying advanced sourcing methodologies and procurement frameworks, including e-sourcing or e-optimisation tools and strategic portfolio approaches such as the AT Kearney Procurement Chessboard or similar category strategy models.
Ability to operate effectively within a global procurement matrix organisation, collaborating across functions and geographies to deliver sourcing outcomes.
Strong customer engagement skills, with the ability to influence across supply chain, manufacturing, finance and technology teams.
Base oil category experience is advantageous but not essential; candidates with experience in other global commodities such as energy, chemicals, metals or industrial raw materials will also be considered.
Why Join Us?
We’re committed to supporting leaders who want to make an impact. You’ll have the chance to shape and influence outcomes across businesses. You’ll be part of an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and where your contribution to performance and integration matters.
We invest in the growth and wellbeing of our people, providing the resources, networks, and development opportunities needed to thrive. Our rewards package includes competitive pay, bonuses, share options, and a range of benefits designed to meet your needs — from healthcare and retirement plans to paid time off and flexible working. We recognise that people have multifaceted lives, and we strive to offer a career experience that reflects that.
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Legal Disclaimer:
We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics like race, religion, color, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, veteran status or disability status. Individuals with an accessibility need may request an adjustment/accommodation related to bp’s recruiting process (e.g., accessing the job application, completing required assessments, participating in telephone screenings or interviews, etc.). If you would like to request an adjustment/accommodation related to the recruitment process, please contact us.
If you are selected for a position and depending upon your role, your employment may be contingent upon adherence to local policy. This may include pre-placement drug screening, medical review of physical fitness for the role, and background checks.