We are seeking an experienced Strategic Sourcing Manager to lead category management initiatives and drive strategic value through procurement excellence.
Reporting into the Strategic Sourcing Director, this role combines strategic thinking with operational execution to optimize organizational spend, manage supplier relationships, and support business objectives through data-driven category strategies.
Key Accountabilities
Strategic Category Management
- Develop and execute comprehensive sourcing strategies aligned with business objectives and organizational priorities
- Conduct detailed category analysis including spend analysis, market research, and supplier landscape assessment
- Create 3-5 year category roadmaps with clear milestones, deliverables, and value creation opportunities
- Lead cross-functional teams to ensure stakeholder alignment and successful strategy implementation
- Monitor category performance against KPIs and adjust strategies based on market dynamics and business needs
Sourcing & Supplier Management
- Execute end-to-end strategic sourcing processes including RFx development, supplier evaluation, and contract negotiation
- Build and maintain a robust supplier portfolio through market analysis and supplier capability assessment
- Develop supplier relationship management strategies to optimize performance, innovation, and risk mitigation
- Conduct regular supplier performance reviews and implement improvement plans where necessary
- Lead supplier development initiatives to enhance capability and drive continuous improvement
Stakeholder Engagement & Relationship Management
- Partner with internal stakeholders to understand business requirements and translate them into procurement strategies
- Influence senior leadership and cross-functional teams to drive adoption of category strategies
- Facilitate stakeholder workshops and category review meetings to ensure alignment and buy-in
- Provide expert procurement guidance and support to business units within assigned categories
- Build strong internal and external relationships to enable successful category outcomes
Financial & Commercial Management
- Deliver measurable cost savings and value creation through strategic sourcing initiatives
- Develop total cost of ownership models and business cases for sourcing decisions
- Negotiate complex commercial terms and conditions to optimize value while managing risk
- Track and report on category financial performance, savings delivery, and budget compliance
- Support budget planning processes with market intelligence and cost forecasting
Risk Management & Compliance
- Identify, assess, and mitigate category-specific risks including supply chain, financial, and operational risks
- Ensure compliance with procurement policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements
- Develop contingency plans and alternative sourcing strategies to maintain business continuity
- Conduct supplier due diligence and ongoing risk monitoring activities
- Implement sustainable procurement practices and ESG considerations within category strategies
Data Analysis & Market Intelligence
- Analyse complex spend data to identify opportunities for consolidation, standardization, and optimization
- Conduct market research and competitive analysis to inform sourcing strategies
- Develop category insights and recommendations based on data analysis and market trends
- Create comprehensive reports and presentations for senior leadership and stakeholders
- Maintain category knowledge base and share best practices across the procurement organization
Skills and Behaviours Required
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop long-term category strategies aligned with business objectives
- Commercial Acumen: Strong negotiation skills and understanding of commercial terms and conditions
- Stakeholder Management: Excellent relationship building and influencing skills across all organizational levels
- Analytical Mindset: Data-driven approach to decision making with strong problem-solving capabilities
- Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with ability to present to senior leadership
- Project Management: Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously with competing priorities