Category Lead

Ciena; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 84,700 - 135,300; Full time

Job summary

Ciena in Ottawa is seeking a Category Lead to develop and execute strategic indirect procurement initiatives. You will own end-to-end sourcing across technical and engineering spend, drive cost savings, and ensure policy compliance while collaborating with global teams.

The role requires strong negotiation, stakeholder management, and the ability to influence across the organization. You will mentor junior colleagues, deliver regular category performance reports to senior management, and push

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in SCM or related field required.
• 5+ years in indirect procurement or strategic sourcing.
• Proven track record of delivering cost savings and process improvements.
• Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers.
• Proficiency in Coupa and Microsoft Office (Excel/PowerPoint).
• Knowledge of legal/commercial aspects of procurement contracts (DocuSign).

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement category strategies for assigned indirect spend categories.
• Lead end-to-end sourcing process including RFI/RFP development and supplier selection.
• Negotiate contracts and conduct supplier evaluations.
• Establish and maintain relationships with internal stakeholders.
• Manage supplier performance and contract compliance.
• Drive continuous improvement within procurement using best practices and technology.
• Ensure procurement activities adhere to ethical guidelines and company policies.
• Collaborate with global procurement teams to leverage global agreements.
• Develop and present regular reports on category performance and savings.
• Mentor and guide junior procurement professionals.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Contract management

Analytical abilities

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Mentoring

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management

MBA or advanced degree

Tools

Coupa

Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We’re a technology company that leads with our humanity—driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

How Will You Contribute

The Category Lead will be responsible for developing and executing strategic sourcing initiatives for various indirect spend categories globally and within Ciena, ensuring cost optimization, supplier performance, and compliance with company policies.

Required Skills

• Develop and implement comprehensive category strategies for assigned indirect spend categories (e.g., technical and engineering teams, Capex, MRO, etc.).
• Conduct market analysis, supplier identification, and spend analysis to identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements.
• Lead the end-to-end sourcing process, including RFI/RFP development, vendor evaluation, negotiation of contracts, and supplier selection.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with key internal stakeholders to understand their business needs and ensure alignment with procurement strategies.
• Manage supplier relationships, including performance monitoring, contract compliance, and dispute resolution.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the procurement function, leveraging best practices and technological solutions.
• Ensure all procurement activities adhere to Ciena's ethical guidelines, financial policies, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with global procurement teams to leverage global agreements and best practices where applicable.
• Develop and present regular reports on category performance, savings achieved, and key metrics to senior management.
• Mentor and guide junior procurement professionals within the team.

Must Haves

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field. MBA or advanced degree preferred.
• 5+ years of progressive experience in indirect procurement or strategic sourcing roles, with at least 3 years in a category management capacity.
• Proven track record of delivering significant cost savings and driving process efficiencies.
• Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers.
• Proficiency in procurement software (e.g., Coupa) and Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel and PowerPoint).
• Strong understanding of legal and commercial aspects of procurement contracts (DocuSign).

Assets

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Excellent communication (written and verbal) and presentation skills.

Pay Range

The salary range for this role in Ottawa is: $84,700 - $135,300 CAD. Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available. Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.

At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard. Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.

Ciena is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.