Remote Category Manager

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly skilled Remote Category Manager to lead procurement initiatives from anywhere in the world. You will develop category strategies, manage key supplier relationships, identify new sourcing opportunities, and optimize spending across designated categories.

The ideal candidate will have a Master’s degree and at least 8 years in category management or strategic sourcing, with exceptional negotiation, analytics, and remote-team collaboration capabilities.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is required.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in category management, strategic sourcing, or procurement, with remote/virtual teams.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing category strategies.
• Exceptional negotiation, influencing, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience with e-sourcing tools and P2P systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive category strategies for assigned goods and services.
• Conduct in-depth market analysis to identify trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Lead supplier sourcing, selection, and negotiation processes to achieve value.
• Manage and nurture strategic relationships with key global suppliers.
• Monitor supplier performance against contractual obligations and KPIs.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives and adherence to budget targets.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align procurement with business objectives.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, ethical guidelines, and regulations.
• Identify and implement innovative sourcing solutions and process improvements.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices and emerging technologies in procurement and supply chain management.

Skills

Negotiation

Stakeholder management

Data analysis

Remote collaboration

Communication

Autonomy

Multi-priority management

Education

Master's degree in Business Administration / Supply Chain Management

Tools

E-sourcing tools

P2P systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized e-commerce giant, is seeking a highly skilled and results-oriented Remote Category Manager to drive their procurement initiatives from anywhere in the world. This fully remote position is critical in developing and executing category strategies to ensure the acquisition of goods and services that meet the company's high standards for quality, cost, and innovation. You will be responsible for managing key supplier relationships, identifying new sourcing opportunities, and optimizing spending across designated categories. This role demands a proactive approach, exceptional negotiation skills, and the ability to thrive in a distributed, fast-paced environment. If you are passionate about procurement and excel in a remote-first setting, this is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of our client's supply chain. You will work independently and collaboratively with global teams, contributing to significant strategic decisions. We are looking for individuals who are self-starters and possess a strong sense of ownership and accountability.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive category strategies for assigned goods and services.
• Conduct in-depth market analysis to identify trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Lead supplier sourcing, selection, and negotiation processes to achieve optimal value.
• Manage and nurture strategic relationships with key global suppliers.
• Monitor supplier performance against contractual obligations and KPIs.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives and ensure adherence to budget targets.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., Product, Marketing, Operations) to align procurement with business objectives.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant procurement policies, ethical guidelines, and regulations.
• Identify and implement innovative sourcing solutions and process improvements.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices and emerging technologies in procurement and supply chain management.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in category management, strategic sourcing, or procurement, with a significant portion in remote or virtual team settings.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing successful category strategies.
• Exceptional negotiation, influencing, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience with e-sourcing tools and P2P systems.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in data analysis for decision-making.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, adapted for remote collaboration.
• Demonstrated ability to work autonomously and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Experience in managing global supplier bases is highly desirable.
• Adaptability and resilience in a constantly evolving market landscape.

Benefits

• As a fully remote employee, you will enjoy the flexibility to work from anywhere, coupled with a highly competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Our client provides a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance that covers you globally, retirement savings plans, and a generous allowance for home office setup and ongoing expenses.
• We invest in our employees' growth through continuous learning opportunities, virtual training programs, and access to leading industry resources.
• You will be part of a vibrant, international team culture that values collaboration and innovation.
• This role offers the unique chance to influence global procurement strategies while maintaining the freedom and flexibility of a remote career.
• Join our client and redefine the future of procurement.