Category Procurement Lead

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Medical coverage

Group life insurance

Retirement plan

Hybrid work model

Centurion campus

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Category Procurement Lead to oversee procurement strategies for key spend categories in Centurion, Gauteng. You will develop sourcing strategies, manage supplier relationships, and drive cost savings in a regulated financial services environment.

The role requires strong negotiation, stakeholder management, and experience in leading cross-functional procurement projects. A hybrid work model and a comprehensive benefits package are offered.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or equivalent in business, supply chain, or finance.
• Proven track record in strategic sourcing and category management.
• Strong negotiation, analytics, and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead category strategies for assigned spend areas (e.g., IT, Marketing, Professional Services).
• Conduct market analysis and supplier landscape assessments to identify opportunities and risks.
• Manage complex sourcing events (RFx) including supplier selection and contract negotiation.
• Develop strategic supplier relationships and ensure performance and compliance.
• Drive cost savings and total cost of ownership improvements across categories.
• Collaborate with business leaders to align procurement with needs and strategy.
• Oversee contract management in line with terms and conditions.
• Monitor category KPIs and report to senior management.
• Stay updated on market trends and procurement innovations.

Skills

Category management

Strategic sourcing

Contract negotiation

Supplier relationship management

Data analytics

Leadership

Education

Master's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Finance

Tools

SAP Ariba

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent financial services institution, is seeking an experienced Category Procurement Lead to oversee procurement strategies for specific spend categories in Centurion, Gauteng . This leadership role is responsible for developing and executing best-in-class sourcing strategies, managing key supplier relationships, and driving significant cost savings and value creation for the organization. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of category management principles, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse internal stakeholders. You will play a critical role in shaping the future of procurement within a highly regulated industry. We are looking for a strategic thinker with a proven ability to manage complex procurement projects and deliver exceptional results. Join a market leader committed to operational excellence and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of category strategies for assigned spend areas (e.g., IT, Marketing, Professional Services).
• Conduct in-depth market analysis and supplier landscape assessments to identify opportunities and risks.
• Manage complex sourcing events (RFx processes), including supplier selection and contract negotiation.
• Develop and nurture strong, strategic relationships with key suppliers, ensuring performance and compliance.
• Drive cost savings initiatives and total cost of ownership improvements across assigned categories.
• Collaborate closely with business unit leaders to understand their needs and ensure procurement alignment.
• Oversee contract management, ensuring adherence to terms and conditions.
• Monitor category performance against KPIs and provide regular reports to senior management.
• Stay abreast of market trends, best practices, and emerging technologies relevant to procurement.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Finance, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in procurement, with at least 4 years focused on category management.
• Demonstrated expertise in strategic sourcing, complex contract negotiation, and supplier relationship management.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate data into actionable insights.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management capabilities.
• Experience in the financial services sector is highly preferred.
• Proficiency in e-procurement tools and ERP systems (e.g., SAP Ariba).
• Proven ability to manage cross-functional projects and drive change.
• Professional certifications (e.g., CIPS, CPSM) are a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a substantial annual bonus, and an excellent benefits package including comprehensive medical coverage, group life insurance, and a robust retirement plan. Significant opportunities for professional development, including advanced training programs, certifications, and leadership development, are provided. This role is based at our modern corporate campus in Centurion , offering a professional and stimulating work environment. A hybrid work model promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Employees benefit from access to wellness programs and the chance to work within a stable and reputable financial institution with clear career progression pathways.