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

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

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

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

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

• 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.

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

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

• 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Functional Competencies