Job Title: Category Manager - Professional Services
Location: Germany
Company: My client is a leading freight forwarding company committed to excellence in procurement and logistics solutions.
Overview: As part of our ongoing transformation in indirect procurement, we are seeking a skilled Category Manager to lead our Professional Services category. This role will be instrumental in driving strategic initiatives, optimizing supplier relationships, and enhancing procurement processes within our organization.
Responsibilities:
Category Strategy Development:
- Develop and execute a comprehensive category strategy for Professional Services procurement, including consulting, legal, financial, and other professional services.
- Conduct market analysis, identify opportunities for cost savings, and leverage insights to optimize procurement processes and drive value for the organization.
Supplier Relationship Management:
- Cultivate and manage strategic relationships with key professional services providers, negotiating contracts and agreements to ensure quality, compliance, and cost-effectiveness.
- Evaluate supplier performance and implement improvement plans to enhance service delivery and maximize value for the company.
Procurement Process Optimization:
- Streamline procurement processes and procedures related to Professional Services, ensuring efficiency, transparency, and compliance with relevant regulations and standards.
- Implement best practices and innovative solutions to enhance procurement effectiveness and support the company's strategic objectives.
Cross-functional Collaboration:
- Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders, including finance, legal, and business operations teams, to align Professional Services procurement strategies with business needs and objectives.
- Provide guidance and expertise on procurement matters, fostering collaboration and driving consensus on procurement decisions.
Performance Monitoring and Reporting:
- Establish KPIs and performance metrics to monitor the effectiveness of Professional Services procurement initiatives, tracking cost savings, supplier performance, and other key indicators.
- Prepare regular reports and presentations for senior management, highlighting achievements, identifying areas for improvement, and recommending actionable insights.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
- Proven experience in Professional Services procurement, with a strong understanding of consulting, legal, financial, and other professional services sourcing processes.
- Excellent negotiation skills and a track record of driving cost savings and optimizing supplier relationships.
- Solid understanding of procurement best practices, contract management, and supplier risk management.
- Strong analytical skills, with the ability to leverage data and insights to inform decision-making and drive strategic initiatives.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across functions and influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Fluency in German and English; additional languages a plus.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and retirement plans.
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a dynamic and growing organization.
- A supportive and collaborative work environment that values diversity and innovation.
