Category Specialist

About the role

The Category Specialist is responsible for executing end‑to‑end procurement activities across an assigned portfolio of goods and services. You will develop sourcing strategies, manage supplier relationships, and ensure compliance with contractual obligations while delivering cost‑effective solutions.

Key responsibilities

• Gather and analyse contract expenditure data to identify savings opportunities.
• Conduct market research, benchmarking and develop solicitation specifications.
• Execute various solicitation methods including RFP, RFQ, competitive and non‑competitive negotiations, and informal purchases.
• Manage supplier performance, resolve disputes, and ensure compliance with contractual terms.
• Lead formal negotiation strategies and support procurement staff in similar activities.
• Develop tools to calculate, forecast and report savings; lead evaluation teams for award recommendations.
• Conduct regular business reviews with suppliers to discuss performance, contract enhancements and price reductions.
• Represent the central procurement office at public events and provide protest support in coordination with legal.

Required profile

• Strong knowledge of procurement policies, procedures and solicitation methods.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Proven experience in supplier and contract management.
• Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers.
• Clear communication skills and ability to work under pressure.

Required skills

• Request for Proposal (RFP) and Request for Qualification (RFQ) processes.
• Competitive and non‑competitive negotiation techniques.
• Market research and benchmarking.
• Contract expenditure analysis.