Job Description
We are seeking a strategic and results-oriented Global Category Manager to join our growing procurement team, led by our new Chief Procurement Officer (CPO). This role will report into the Director of Sourcing & Category Management and be instrumental in driving cost reduction and value creation across the IFS Group. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in category management, particularly within a private equity environment. As a Global Category Manager, you will develop and execute category strategies, manage supplier relationships, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve Procurements objectives.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Category Strategy Development: Develop and implement global category strategies that align with the company’s overall procurement objectives to deliver value back to the business.
2. Cost Reduction Focus: Identify and execute cost reduction initiatives across all assigned categories, leveraging spend analysis, market intelligence, and supplier negotiations.
3. Contract Management: Oversee the development, negotiation, and management of contracts to ensure favourable terms and mitigate risks.
4. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with procurement teams, portfolio company stakeholders, and other departments to ensure alignment on category strategies and cost-saving initiatives.
5. Market Analysis: Conduct thorough market research and analysis to identify trends, risks, and opportunities within the assigned categories.
6. Performance Tracking: Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) for category performance, regularly reporting on progress to Procurement Leadership.
7. Change Management: Support the CPO in driving procurement transformation across the portfolio, embedding best practices and building upon a culture of continuous improvement.
8. Risk Management: Identify and manage risks within the supply chain, developing mitigation strategies to ensure supply continuity and compliance.
9. Team Leadership: Provide guidance and mentorship to junior team members, contributing to the development of a high-performing procurement team.
Qualifications
10. 5-8 years of experience in category management, procurement, or strategic sourcing.
11. Proven experience in a private equity or dynamic, fast-paced environment is highly desirable.
12. Strong negotiation skills with a track record of delivering significant cost savings.
13. Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to leverage data to inform decision-making and drive results.
14. Experience managing global supplier relationships and complex procurement projects.
15. Strong leadership, and the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
16. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with a collaborative approach to working across functions and regions.
17. Ability to travel as required to manage key projects and drive results.