Indirect Category Manager

About the role

The Indirect Category Manager is responsible for developing and executing category strategies that maximise value, reduce risk and support enterprise‑wide operational efficiency. Acting as a strategic partner to business functions, the role drives performance improvement and innovation through effective sourcing and supplier management.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development and delivery of category strategies based on Total Cost of Ownership principles, using preferred supplier lists, framework agreements and spend analytics.
• Serve as the primary contact for key indirect suppliers, managing relationships, resolving performance issues and supporting renegotiations or exits.
• Conduct market intelligence and benchmarking with internal stakeholders to shape sourcing strategies that meet current and future business needs.
• Provide direct support in complex, multi‑year negotiations, leveraging pricing models, cost breakdowns and risk assessments to drive value.
• Define and track category‑specific KPIs aligned with the global procurement strategy, ensuring consistent performance reporting.

Required profile

• Master's degree in supply chain management, business administration or a related field.
• Proven experience in procurement, strategic sourcing or supply chain focusing on indirect categories such as IT, professional services, facilities, HR, marketing or travel.
• Demonstrated ability to influence senior stakeholders and act as a trusted advisor on procurement strategy and supplier management.
• Advanced negotiation skills with a track record of leading complex, enterprise‑wide contracts.

Required skills

• SAP
• Coupa
• Ariba