Category Manager - Indirect Spend

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Remote work option

Professional development

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct is seeking an experienced Category Manager to oversee indirect spend procurement with a remote-first approach. This role supports East London operations while enabling effective sourcing strategies and stakeholder collaboration across the business.

You will lead negotiations, drive cost savings, and mentor team members, leveraging ERP systems and spend analysis tools to optimize procurement processes and value creation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Finance, or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of progressive procurement experience with emphasis on indirect spend and category management.
• Proven ability to develop and execute category strategies and run complex sourcing initiatives.
• Strong negotiation, contract management, and supplier relationship management skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement category strategies for indirect spend areas focusing on value creation and cost optimization.
• Conduct market analysis, supplier research, and benchmarking for assigned categories.
• Lead end-to-end sourcing events including RFx development, supplier evaluation, and contract negotiation.
• Manage supplier relationships, performance, and risk for key indirect suppliers.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to define requirements and align sourcing strategies.
• Drive continuous improvement within indirect procurement and monitor spend for consolidation opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, ethics, and regulatory requirements.
• Prepare and present category performance reports and strategic recommendations to leadership.
• Mentor junior procurement team members.

Skills

Category management

Negotiation

Data analysis

Supplier relationship management

Remote work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management

Business Administration/Finance or related field

Tools

ERP systems

Procurement software

Spend analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, WhatJobs Direct, is seeking an experienced and strategic Category Manager to oversee indirect spend procurement. This is a fully remote role, allowing you to leverage your expertise to drive significant value for our East London operations without the need for daily office presence. You will be responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies for a wide range of indirect categories, including professional services, IT, MRO, and facilities management. This role requires a strong understanding of market dynamics, exceptional negotiation skills, and the ability to build collaborative relationships with stakeholders across the business. As a remote-first professional, you will utilize advanced digital collaboration tools to ensure seamless integration of sourcing initiatives and achieve optimal cost savings and value. Your strategic approach will be key to optimizing our procurement efficiency and supporting business growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement category strategies for indirect spend areas, focusing on value creation and cost optimization.
• Conduct comprehensive market analysis, supplier research, and benchmarking for assigned categories.
• Lead end-to-end sourcing events, including RFx development, supplier evaluation, and contract negotiation.
• Manage supplier relationships, performance, and risk for key indirect suppliers.
• Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders to understand business needs, define requirements, and ensure alignment of sourcing strategies.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the indirect procurement function.
• Monitor category spend and identify opportunities for consolidation and leverage.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Prepare and present category performance reports and strategic recommendations to leadership.
• Mentor and guide junior members of the procurement team in relevant categories.

Requirements

• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in procurement, with a strong focus on indirect spend management and category management.
• Proven success in developing and executing category strategies and leading complex sourcing initiatives.
• Expertise in negotiation, contract management, and supplier relationship management.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and develop strategic insights.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and lead projects in a remote setting.
• Proficiency in procurement software and ERP systems.
• Knowledge of spend analysis tools and techniques is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, performance-based incentives, and a comprehensive benefits package.
• This fully remote role offers exceptional flexibility and work-life balance.
• Access to ongoing professional development, training, and opportunities for career advancement.
• Be part of a collaborative virtual team and utilize cutting-edge procurement technology.
• Contribute strategically to our East London-based operations from anywhere.