Global External Workforce Sourcing Lead

McKinsey & Company; New York (NY); On-site; USD 191,000 - 255,000; Full time

Job summary

McKinsey & Company is seeking a seasoned sourcing and category management leader to drive enterprise-wide supplier strategy for external workers and advisors. You will shape long-term category direction, collaborate across functions, and optimize costs while maintaining quality and client satisfaction.

You will build strong partnerships with global leaders, manage risk, and deliver data-driven recommendations, with a focus on process discipline, governance, and scalable procurement excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree (MBA, PhD) or equivalent practical experience strongly preferred.
• 7+ years of experience in sourcing, category management, procurement, or consulting with a strong track record of delivering business value.
• Proven ability to assess complex problems, synthesize insights, and drive data-backed decisions.
• Skilled in creating and interpreting analytical outputs, including Excel models and category performance reports.
• Ability to produce high-quality deliverables, including PowerPoint presentations, sourcing documentation, contract summaries, and other written materials that support decision-making.
• Highly organized and self-motivated, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to drive structured processes and deliver repeatable outcomes.
• Adept at building trusted relationships across functions, geographies, and levels of seniority.
• Ability to influence without authority and work effectively in cross-functional teams.
• Embraces collaborative, non-hierarchical approach and fosters mutual respect and accountability.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messages to diverse audiences and seniority levels.

Responsibilities

• Lead enterprise-wide portfolio management across hundreds of suppliers.
• Shape and execute a comprehensive category strategy aligned to business goals, driving financial value and compliance.
• Define long-term direction for Non-Tech External Worker and Advisor categories with cross-functional partnerships.
• Drive supplier sourcing innovation and efficiency to deliver measurable business outcomes.
• Collaborate with leaders to rationalize supplier landscape, expand strategic partnerships, and optimize costs without compromising quality.

Skills

Sourcing

Category management

Procurement

Consulting

Analytical thinking

Excel modeling

PowerPoint

Stakeholder management

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication

Influence without authority

Relationship building

Contracting

Risk management

Education

Bachelor's degree

MBA or PhD preferred

Tools

Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

McKinsey & Company is seeking a seasoned sourcing and category management leader to drive enterprise-wide supplier strategy for external workers and advisors. You will shape long-term category direction, collaborate across functions, and optimize costs while maintaining quality and client satisfaction.

You will build strong partnerships with global leaders, manage risk, and deliver data-driven recommendations, with a focus on process discipline, governance, and scalable procurement excellence.