Introduction

In this procurement consulting role, the Category Manager will lead the development, execution, and ongoing management of category/sourcing strategies for IBM's Procurement BPO clients. Above and beyond strategic sourcing activities, the Category Manager should understand external variables, learn the internal landscape of our client (requirements, organizational structure, priorities) and develop relationships to successfully deliver improved cost, reduced risk, and more efficient programs.

Your role and responsibilities

Develops category strategies and/or sourcing strategies for the assigned areas of responsibility.
Builds deep relationships with cross-functional client stakeholders including retained Procurement teams, business stakeholders, Legal, and Finance.
Ability to drive sourcing outcomes in Facilities/MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Operations) by influencing multiple key stakeholders across different geographic locations
Identifies cost savings opportunities across the client's Facilities/MRO spend.
Acts as a trusted advisor and SME in the areas of sourcing and negotiating contracts for Facilities/MRO and other Indirect categories.
Achieves cost savings, risk mitigation, and process efficiencies through various value levers.
Leads supplier selection process across multiple simultaneous projects within the category.
Leads negotiations with current and potential suppliers as part of the contract renewal or vendor selection process.
Collects and analyzes internal/external category data, utilizes market knowledge on primary price drivers for the category including but not limited to raw materials/tariffs, adopts category metrics, and reports to track performance against targets and identify new sourcing opportunities or category insights.
Innovates within the procurement space; looking at new ways to structure programs or categories, benefit from changes in supply market, or modify tools/processes to add value.
Provides support throughout the sourcing and contracting process when necessary, ensuring seamless handoff to our clients when appropriate.

Required technical and professional expertise

A minimum of 7 years of strategic sourcing and category management experience
4 years sourcing Facilities/MRO categories in areas such as MRO Consulables and Industrial Supplies, Facilities Hard \& Soft services, Facilities Maintenance, and Operations.
Candidates must be willing and able to travel to client locations based on business requirements (US \& Canada clients).
The required location for this position is Toronto, ON (up to 5 business days per week in an IBM or client office).

Preferred technical and professional experience

Previous experience in a client facing / consultative role
Experience in Packaging sourcing would be advantageous
International sourcing experience in regions including North America, EMEA and APAC
Degree in Business, Law, Supply Chain Management or other applicable field

IBM is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, caste, genetics, pregnancy, disability, neurodivergence, age, veteran status, or other characteristics. IBM is also committed to compliance with all fair employment practices regarding citizenship and immigration status.

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Category Manager – Facilities/MRO