Strategic Category Leader: Sourcing & Value for BPO

Vizient, Inc.; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 102,000 - 179,000; Full time

Job summary

Vizient, Inc. is seeking a Category Management Director to serve as the strategic leader and trusted advisor for assigned portfolios.

You will develop category strategies, guide value analysis, and lead complex sourcing and contracting initiatives across stakeholders including clinicians, executives, and suppliers. The role emphasizes AI fluency in market intelligence, risk mitigation, and performance optimization, with a hybrid work model and offices in Irving, Chicago, and Centennial.

Qualifications

• Relevant degree preferred and professional experience in category management or sourcing.
• 7+ years of experience in category management, strategic sourcing, or related fields.
• Proven ability to influence executive and stakeholder groups.
• Experience leading complex sourcing initiatives and contract negotiations.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and presentation skills.
• Familiarity with AI concepts and ability to apply them responsibly in business decisions.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead category strategies aligned with client priorities and Vizient objectives.
• Lead end-to-end sourcing, RFI/RFP processes, supplier evaluation, and contracting.
• Build consensus among stakeholders, suppliers, and Vizient teams for solutions.
• Provide mentoring and strategic direction across cross-functional teams.
• Analyze spend and market data to drive savings and value realization.
• Communicate strategy and outcomes to executive audiences and committees.

Skills

Category management

Strategic sourcing

Supply chain

Contracting

Healthcare operations

Negotiation

Analytical skills

Executive communication

AI fluency

Education

Relevant degree

Tools

Assorted RFI/RFP processes

Job description

Vizient, Inc. is seeking a Category Management Director to serve as the strategic leader and trusted advisor for assigned portfolios.

You will develop category strategies, guide value analysis, and lead complex sourcing and contracting initiatives across stakeholders including clinicians, executives, and suppliers. The role emphasizes AI fluency in market intelligence, risk mitigation, and performance optimization, with a hybrid work model and offices in Irving, Chicago, and Centennial.