Strategic Sourcing Lead - Professional Services

EXL; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 95,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

EXL is seeking a Category Manager for Professional Services to drive end-to-end sourcing and category management across consulting, advisory, IT services, legal, staffing, and BPO. The role blends hands-on sourcing delivery with strategy, vendor negotiations, and stakeholder collaboration to optimize cost, quality, and business outcomes.

You will develop category strategies, manage supplier relationships, and lead RFx activities, including RFPs and contract negotiations, to secure favorable

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field required.
• 5+ years of sourcing/procurement experience focused on professional services (consulting, advisory, BPO, etc).
• Experience as a Sourcing Specialist, Procurement Specialist, or similar role.
• Strong knowledge of strategic sourcing methodologies, procurement best practices, and supplier management.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Good project management, business analysis, and process analysis skills.
• Professional certifications such as CPSM or PMP are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category strategies for professional services spend.
• Identify opportunities for rate optimization, vendor consolidation, and scope rationalization.
• Manage demand pipelines and align sourcing with organizational priorities.
• Lead sourcing engagements across consulting firms, SI, staffing, legal, and BPO providers.
• Develop rate cards, benchmarking, and pricing frameworks across providers.

Skills

Sourcing

Procurement

Vendor management

Stakeholder alignment

Communication

Project management

Analytical skills

CPSM or PMP certification

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

CPSM or PMP Certification (optional)

Job description

EXL is seeking a Category Manager for Professional Services to drive end-to-end sourcing and category management across consulting, advisory, IT services, legal, staffing, and BPO. The role blends hands-on sourcing delivery with strategy, vendor negotiations, and stakeholder collaboration to optimize cost, quality, and business outcomes.

You will develop category strategies, manage supplier relationships, and lead RFx activities, including RFPs and contract negotiations, to secure favorable