Procurement Specialist

Our client is seeking a Category Lead – Expert to play a critical role in optimizing sourcing and procurement strategy across medium-complexity categories. This individual contributor role requires strong IT category expertise, supplier relationship management, and advanced negotiation skills. The Category Lead will act as a subject matter expert, leading category planning, supplier negotiations, and contract management to deliver cost efficiency, supplier innovation, and risk mitigation.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as subject matter expert for assigned categories or services.
• Develop and execute category plans and sourcing strategies for medium-complexity categories that optimize cost, mitigate risk, and ensure supply continuity.
• Lead competitive bidding processes, including RFPs, RFIs, and negotiations, to secure best-value agreements.
• Negotiate, draft, and manage contracts in alignment with regulatory requirements, corporate policies, and industry standards.
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with category suppliers, conducting performance reviews, fostering collaboration, and driving continuous improvement and innovation.
• Partner with cross-functional stakeholders to align sourcing and negotiation strategies with business needs.
• Monitor industry and market trends, supplier landscapes, and regulatory changes to inform strategic sourcing initiatives.
• Conduct market research and supplier risk assessments to evaluate financial health and supply resilience.

Candidate Profile

Must-Have Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or related discipline (or equivalent experience).
• 6 years of sourcing/procurement experience.
• Proven ability to lead high-value negotiations, develop contract structures, and deliver favorable outcomes.
• Strong analytical skills with expertise in spend analysis, cost modeling, and digital procurement tools.
• Experience collaborating with stakeholders, influencing business decisions, and driving results in procurement.
• Proficiency in leading cross-functional teams on medium-complexity sourcing initiatives.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

Desired Qualifications

• 8 years of procurement, sourcing, or supply chain experience (utility, energy, or infrastructure sector preferred).
• Experience sourcing in Consulting/Professional Services, Construction/Related Services, or Materials.
• MBA or advanced degree in business or related discipline.
• Lean Six Sigma (LSS), PMP, or ISM CPSM certification (or similar).
• Knowledge of procurement systems (e.g., Ariba, SAP).