Category Specialist

Fusion Outsourcing; Doha; On-site; QAR 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A global procurement service provider in Doha, Qatar, is seeking a Strategic Procurement Specialist to execute procurement strategies, manage supplier relationships, and ensure compliance with best practices in procurement. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree and several years of relevant industry experience. The role offers an opportunity to make significant contributions in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in procurement, particularly in Oil & Gas.
• International certifications like CIPS or CSCP preferred.
• Experience in strategic procurement required.

Responsibilities

• Execute category strategies and manage contracts for procurement.
• Conduct sourcing projects including RFP preparation and supplier engagement.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and regulations.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Conflict management

Proficiency in SAP

Proficiency in MS Office

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration

Postgraduate in Contract Management

Tools

SAP

MS Office

Job description

Overview

The Strategic Procurement Specialist is responsible for executing category procurement strategies through strategic sourcing initiatives, supplier relationship management, and contract administration (post-award). The role involves implementing best practices for procurement activities, negotiating framework agreements, and managing high-value purchase orders. The specialist collaborates with end users and suppliers to identify cost-saving opportunities and ensure effective category management.

Responsibilities

Category Management & Strategy Execution

• Develop technical and commercial expertise within the procurement category.
• Define category spend, preferred supplier policies, and implement category strategies in compliance with policies and procedures.
• Continuously analyse internal requirements and external market dynamics to inform category strategy.
• Assist in short-, mid-, and long-term demand forecasts with Maintenance, Finance, and Procurement teams.
• Recommend levers (commercial and non-commercial) to maximize value from procurement spend.
• Execute category strategies, including framework agreements, contract negotiations, and initiatives for managed categories.
• Conduct category risk management and develop mitigation plans.

Strategic Sourcing

• Conduct sourcing projects, including RFP preparation, pricing review, contract drafting, and supplier engagement.
• Develop and manage supplier portfolios aligned with category goals.
• Monitor supply markets and agreements to ensure sustainable benefits.
• Manage tenders, ensuring compliance with procedures, policies, and legal requirements.
• Support supplier selection, contract development, and negotiation strategies.
• Integrate new suppliers and manage operational transitions.

Supplier Management & Contracts Administration

• Define supplier qualification criteria and develop Supplier Relationship Management plans.
• Conduct supplier performance evaluations and support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain risk registers and contractor performance data for decision-making.
• Facilitate communication and act as escalation point for supplier issues.
• Manage Contracts Administration process including variations, claims, and disputes.

Development & Knowledge Sharing

• Actively seek feedback and pursue professional development opportunities.
• Participate in knowledge retention, sharing, and documentation of best practices.

Policies, Systems, Processes & Procedures

• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in procurement systems and practices.
• Support the development of departmental systems, policies, processes, and procedures.
• Prepare supporting documents for Tender Committees.
• Approve contract awards within defined limits.
• Ensure compliance with company Code of Conduct, regulations, policies, and standards.

Quality, Health, Safety & Environment (QHSSE)

• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and relevant QHSSE procedures to guarantee employee safety and high-quality delivery.

Reporting

• Provide timely and accurate reports on procurement activities, tender progress, and strategic sourcing events.

Qatarization

• Support the development of Qatari employees (for expatriate staff).

Qualifications & Experience

Education

• Required: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Supply Chain, or related field.
• Preferred: Postgraduate qualification in Contract Management or Project Management.

Experience

• Required: 3-5 years of multi-disciplinary experience, with at least 2 years in Oil & Gas, Petrochemical, or industrial procurement, including 1-2 years in strategic procurement.
• Preferred: 5-7 years of experience in O&G/Petrochemical industry at a specialist/professional level in strategic procurement.

Skills & Competencies

• International certifications (CIPS, CSCP, SCMA, ISM) preferred.
• Proficiency in SAP (including SAP Ariba) and MS Office.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and conflict management skills.
• Ability to work in cross-functional, multi-disciplinary teams.