Category Lead - ICT

Tribe Recruitment; Auckland; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Tribe Recruitment in Auckland, North Island, is seeking a Category Lead to develop, lead and execute category plans and sourcing strategies that drive value for the organisation.

You will influence stakeholders at all levels, manage supplier relationships and use market trends to shape contracts across multiple categories within a large, nationwide operation.

The role requires strategic thinking, strong analytical capability and proven leadership in category management within large organisations.

Qualifications

• Experience in category management and procurement leadership
• Ability to influence stakeholders at all levels
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills

Responsibilities

• Develop, lead and execute category plans and sourcing strategies
• Manage supplier relationships and contracts across categories
• Inform contract development using market trends and business objectives

Skills

Category management

Procurement

Stakeholder engagement

Analytical skills

Leadership

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

Tribe Recruitment - Auckland, North Island

About the Company:
Join an organisation that is redefining how large-scale procurement delivers value to the people of Aotearoa. Their commercial and supply chain team operates nationwide, driving smarter use of public resources through strategic category management and long-term partnerships.

About the Role:
As the Category Lead you are responsible for developing, leading and executing category plans and sourcing strategies that amplify value delivery. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong analytical skills and the ability to manage supplier relationships effectively. The Category Lead will use market trends and business objectives to inform and guide the development of individual contracts within the category, ensuring they contribute to the overall strategic vision and deliver maximum value for the organisation.

About You:
You are a strategic thinker with proven expertise in category management, procurement, or commercial leadership. You are adept at balancing strategic vision with hand-on delivery and have the confidence to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels. Above all, you are motivated by purpose, using your commercial acumen to make a tangible difference. We will be looking for candidates with a good level of experience in category management and proven experience leading a team. You will be able to demonstrate expertise, at a senior leadership level, in category management roles working across different markets, geographies and categories within large organisations, including substantial spend under management and broad people leadership.

To apply for this vacancy you MUST be a New Zealand citizen, resident, or have already secured the right to work in New Zealand and therefore hold a valid visa.

At the appropriate stage we will request your references, we ask that you do not include them on your CV when applying.

At Tribe we have our guiding light to show us the way. We bring our whole selves to work. We encourage inclusion in every single interaction. We genuinely care about people and are curious about their stories. We celebrate all points of view. We will help you find your tribe, the same way we have. We're all on a journey together so come along...