Category Specialist (100459)

WestJet; Calgary; Hybrid; CAD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

WestJet is seeking a full-time strategic procurement professional to join their team in Calgary. The position provides an opportunity to build expertise in procurement while supporting sourcing strategies and supplier engagement. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills, and be eager to learn within a collaborative environment.

Benefits

Travel privileges for you and your family

Flexible savings and benefit programs

Fun and friendly culture

Qualifications

• 2 to 5+ years of experience in procurement, contract management, or sourcing.
• Strong analytical and communication skills required.
• Willingness to learn and take initiative in a team environment.

Responsibilities

• Conduct supplier and product market research.
• Assist in financial statement analysis and reporting.
• Support cost analysis and maintain cost tracking tools.

Skills

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Relationship-building skills

Negotiation skills

Problem-solving skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business

Supply Chain Canada designation

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Employment Type:Full-time Regular

City:Calgary, AB (YYC)

Posting Open Date: 06/10/2025

PostingClose Date: 06/28/2025 (Please note the posting will close at 9:59pm MST)

Why WestJet:

Every WestJet journey has the potential to enrich lives; a career with us is no exception.

WestJet arrived on the Canadian airline scene in 1996 and changed the industry for the better. We made air travel more affordable for Canadians and now we're going global.

Join us, this is where your career story takes off.

Hybrid Work:
This is a hybrid work position in Calgary, Alberta and requires in-person collaboration at the WestJet Campus (22 Aerial Place NE) 3 days per week. This provides flexibility the remaining 40% of the work week. This hybrid work plan allows for critically important learning, collaboration and networking with our colleagues. Specific days in the office are agreed upon by the team.

Reporting to the Strategic Procurement Leader (Sr. Manager or Director) , the successful candidate will bring capability in strategic procurement, category management and contract life cycle management. The candidate will support the Strategic Procurement team in executing sourcing strategies, conducting market and financial analysis, and ensuring effective procurement operations. This role is ideal for someone early in their career who is eager to learn and contribute to impactful procurement initiatives.

Main Responsibilities

• Supplier & Product Market Research - Conduct research on suppliers, products, and market trends to support sourcing decisions and category strategy development.
• Financial Statement Analysis & Reporting - Assist in analyzing supplier financials and internal cost data to support reporting, stewardship, and cost-saving initiatives.
• Meeting Support & Action Tracking - Take meeting notes, document key decisions, and help organize follow-up actions and activities to ensure alignment and progress.
• Cost Analysis & Data Collection - Support cost analysis efforts by gathering and organizing data, maintaining cost tracking tools, and preparing summary reports.
• Category Strategy Support - Assist in the development and implementation of category strategies in collaboration with internal stakeholders.
• Stakeholder & Supplier Engagement - Help build and maintain relationships with internal customers and suppliers to understand business needs and support procurement goals.
• Sourcing & Contracting Support – Leading and/or support in contract renewals, sourcing activities, and contact formation, including spend analysis, RFx processes, preparation of negotiation materials and contract formation.
• Compliance & Policy Adherence - Ensure procurement activities align with company policies, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Performance Tracking - Assist in tracking and reporting procurement KPIs such as cost savings, supplier performance, and spend under management.
• Process Improvement Initiatives - Contribute to initiatives aimed at improving procurement processes, tools, and team efficiency.

Knowledge and Skills

• 2 to 5+ years of experience in projects, strategic procurement, contract management, category management, and or sourcing experience
• Strong analytical, organizational skills, communication (verbal and written) and relationship-building skills required.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Excel, other office tools, contract management, and spend analytics.
• Understanding of procurement, finance, or supply chain principles and demonstrated capability in negotiation, contracting, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to learn, take initiative in a team environment
• Bachelor’s degree in business, or equivalent. Supply Chain Canada designation is considered an asset.

The benefits of being aWestJetter:

WestJet provides allWestJetterswith a competitive total rewards package. On top of that, we offer:

• A fun and friendly culture with colleagues who work together to win
• Travel privileges for you and your family, effective from your start date
• Savings and Benefit programs that are flexible to meet your specific needs

Think we are a fit? Apply now!

About WestJet Group of Companies

Together with WestJet's regional airline, WestJet Encore, we offer scheduled service to more than 100 destinations in North America, Central America, the Caribbean and Europe and to more than 175 destinations in over 20 countries through our airline partnerships.

Our Safety Promise

At WestJet, the safety and security of our people and our guests is a core value and at the heart of what we do. As safety and security is a shared responsibility, it is expected that you will use safe work practices to ensure your well-being and the safety of others.

WestJet recognizes that the use of Alcohol and Drugs can adversely impact a safe work environment and the well-being of others including guests, suppliers and the public, as well as place WestJet's operations at risk. All roles that are identified as safety sensitive are required to pass a Pre-Employment Alcohol and Drug Test as per WestJet's Alcohol and Drug Policy.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

We embrace what makes us each unique, and what makes us uniquely WestJet – and that is our people. WestJet is committed to creating an inclusive workplace that celebrates our differences by way of diversity, equity, and inclusion. As an equal opportunity employer, we want to you bring your full self to work and feel appreciated for your contributions.

At WestJet, we welcome unique skills, experiences, and backgrounds - if you’re passionate and excited about this role, we encourage you to apply even if you do not meet every single qualification in the posting. We are committed to inclusivity, equity, and accessibility in the selection process. If you require an accommodation during the recruiting process, please let our Talent Acquisition team know.

We thank all applicants for their interest in WestJet; however, only those candidates who are selected will be contacted.

For more information about everything WestJet, please visit WestJet.com.

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