Regional Category Manager
Job Description – Regional Category Manager
Position Overview
The Regional Category Manager is responsible for developing and executing category strategies across the assigned region to drive cost optimization, supplier performance, and business value. This role partners closely with cross‑functional teams—including Supply Chain, Operations, Finance, Quality, and R&D—to ensure category strategies align with regional and global business objectives. The position requires strong analytical capability, supplier management expertise, and the ability to influence stakeholders across multiple markets.
Key Responsibilities
Category Strategy & Execution
Develop and implement regional category strategies aligned with global procurement objectives and business needs.
Conduct market analysis, cost modeling, and benchmarking to identify opportunities for cost savings, risk mitigation, and value creation.
Lead sourcing initiatives, including RFI/RFP/RFQ processes, supplier selection, and contract negotiations.
Ensure category strategies support long‑term business growth, supply continuity, and innovation.
Supplier Management
Manage key supplier relationships, including performance reviews, contract compliance, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Drive supplier development programs to enhance quality, service levels, and operational efficiency.
Identify and onboard new suppliers to strengthen supply base resilience and competitiveness.
Monitor supplier risks and implement mitigation plans across the region.
Cross‑Functional Collaboration
Partner with regional and global stakeholders to align category strategies with operational and commercial priorities.
Support new product introductions (NPI) and major business projects by ensuring timely sourcing and supplier readiness.
Collaborate with Supply Chain, Quality, and Operations teams to resolve supply issues and optimize end‑to‑end processes.
Financial & Performance Management
Deliver annual cost savings, productivity improvements, and working capital targets.
Track and report category performance, including KPIs, cost trends, and supplier scorecards.
Ensure compliance with procurement policies, governance standards, and ethical sourcing requirements.
Regional Leadership
Provide category expertise and guidance to local procurement teams across the region.
Lead or participate in global category councils, sharing best practices and driving alignment.
Support capability building within the procurement organization.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field; Master’s degree preferred.
5–10+ years of procurement or category management experience, ideally in a multinational environment.
Strong knowledge of sourcing processes, supplier management, and contract negotiation.
Experience managing regional or multi‑country categories is highly preferred.
Excellent analytical, communication, and stakeholder‑management skills.
Fluent in English; additional regional languages are a plus.
Ability to travel within the region as required.
Key Competencies
Strategic thinking and business acumen
Strong negotiation and influencing skills
Supplier relationship management
Cross‑functional collaboration
Data‑driven decision making
Project management
Results‑oriented mindset