Indirect Category Manager

Purpose

• As Indirect Category Manager, you are responsible for the development and execution of category strategies that maximize value, reduce risk, and support enterprise-wide operational efficiency and transformation. You act as a strategic partner to business functions, contributing to performance improvement and enabling innovation through effective sourcing and supplier management.

Responsibilities

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  You act as the main point of contact for key suppliers and are recognized internally as a strategic procurement expert for your indirect category.

  
  


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  You can lead a team, and guide them in aligning sourcing strategies to business needs and global procurement objectives.

  
  


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  You conduct market intelligence and benchmarking in collaboration with internal stakeholders to finalize sourcing strategies that respond to current and future business requirements.

  
  


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  You support internal teams when supplier relationships are at risk (e.g., performance issues, service level disputes, renegotiation needs, exit planning).

  
  


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  You define and deliver a category strategy based on Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) principles, leveraging Preferred Supplier Lists, framework agreements, spend analytics, and risk assessments.

  
  


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  You provide direct support in complex negotiations, using market intelligence, pricing models, and cost breakdowns to drive value.

  
  


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  You identify and report risks & opportunities in the supplier market (e.g., vendor consolidation, technology disruptions, outsourcing trends).

  
  


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  You define category-specific KPIs aligned with the Global Procurement Strategy and ensure consistent tracking, reporting, and performance management.

  
  

Education

• Master's degree in supply chain management, business administration, or a related field

Experience

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  Previous experience in Procurement, Strategic Sourcing, or Supply Chain, with a focus on indirect categories (e.g., IT, Professional Services, Facilities, HR, Marketing, Travel).

  
  


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  Proven track record in developing and executing category strategies that deliver measurable value in cost, quality, risk mitigation, sustainability, or innovation.

  
  


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  Demonstrated ability to influence senior stakeholders across business functions and act as a trusted advisor on procurement strategy, commercial models, and supplier management.

  
  


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  Advanced negotiation skills with experience leading complex, multi-year contract negotiations, including framework agreements and enterprise-wide deals.

  
  


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  Expertise in Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), supplier segmentation, vendor risk assessment

  
  


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  Deep understanding of sourcing levers, market dynamics, and supplier ecosystems relevant to your category.

  
  


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  Solid experience in contract lifecycle management, supplier performance governance, and resolution of disputes or escalations.

  
  


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  Excellent analytical, communication, and project leadership skills with the ability to translate business needs into strategic procurement plans.

  
  


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  Familiarity with eProcurement tools and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Coupa, Ariba) and digital sourcing methodologies.

  
  

Functional Competencies