Global Logistics Category Manager

OVERALL ROLE OBJECTIVE: The Category Manager will be responsible for the development and implementation of the procurement strategy for a defined area of procurement, managing the end to end procurement cycle in line with business requirements. The Category Manager will manage supplier relationships, drive the utilisation of preferred suppliers and develop a strategic plan to reduce costs, mitigate risk and improve quality. The Category Manager will lead cross-functional teams and collaborate with key stakeholders to identify their sourcing needs, perform market research, devise sourcing strategies, lead supplier selection process (e.g. competitive bidding, partnership development, consolidation/reducing risks) and negotiate supply agreements and contracts. The Category Manager will be responsible for supplier relationship management by partnering with the assigned business units to facilitate supplier performance monitoring, continuous improvement, innovation, and new product introduction, including development of category strategies, identification of cost saving opportunities, facilitating and leading sourcing projects, supplier negotiation, and establishment and maintenance of stakeholder and supplier relationships. JOB SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES: The post holder will: • Assist in the development of global category strategies, including market and industry analysis • Lead and manage the RFI, RFP, RFQ processes for couriers and 3rd party logistics service providers • Support the implementation of contractual terms and supply agreements with vendors to meet service specifications and delivery against business objectives • Manage Contract Life Cycle (e.g. renewing expired contracts, updating pricing annually etc) • Lead Stakeholder engagement to ensure sourcing is aligned with business objectives (e.g. Social responsibility, diversity, compliance), influencing where needed • Develop strong internal relationships, working collaboratively to maintain open and positive communication with stakeholders and senior management, securing confidence in procurement • Identify supplier risk areas, and execute risk mitigation actions • Establish and maintain supplier relationships, defining supplier management strategy including implementation of appropriate KPIs, and facilitate periodic business reviews to continually identify process improvements and cost reduction opportunities • Prepare analyses of spend data, category supplier bases and cost models • Manage complex projects from conception through implementation, including change management • Review and challenge existing agreements, policies and processes to ensure they are compliant and fit for purpose • Lead Global Strategic sourcing initiatives and projects as required QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject (or equivalent) Or Significant expertise in a strategic logistics/procurement environment EXPERIENCE Significant procurement experience in a logistics category to include the commercial management of global couriers and 3rd party logistics service providers Significant expertise in global contract and commercial negotiation, supplier agreements and supplier relationship management KEY SKILLS Excellent problem solving, communication, and influencing skills Record of managing and developing category spend Significant experience of IT software systems Ability to establish supplier specifications/requirements in conjunction with subject matter experts, and manage internal and supplier relationships to achieve desired results Ability to provide fact based strategy and sourcing recommendations Demonstrated experience of achieving significant savings, both through major initiatives and continuous improvement Experienced user of Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and ERPs