Category Advisor

SUMMARY:
We are representing a client seeking an experienced Category Advisor with a strong background in Supply Value Chain Management. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated expertise in integrating Commercial, PSC, Supplier Management, and Purchasing disciplines, as well as Safety, Sustainability, and Inclusive Procurement principles. Proven capability in negotiation and deal-making, business case development, and investment appraisal is essential. Experience in Category Management, Strategic Sourcing, Contracting, and Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) with a focus on Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is required.

6 months contract role, hybrid model and based in JHB-North

POSITION INFO:

Requirements:

• B Com Degree or relevant Supply Chain qualification
• Extensive experience SC value chain
• Must have the experience in integrating Commercial, PSC, Supplier Management & Purchasing sub disciplines
  - Safety & Sustainability as it relates to Supply Chain & Inclusive Procurement
• 6 years plus experience in Commercial contracts, negotiation and deal-making, business case development, investment appraisal
• 6 years plus experience in Category Management, sourcing & contracting with Total Cost Ownership approach
• Supplier Relationship Management
• Business Planning, Business Case development
• Working knowledge of regional and local Inclusive Procurement requirements
• Strategic procurement (Competent)
• Integrated Risk Management (Competent)
• Stakeholder Engagement and Communication (Competent)
• Supply Chain Systems and Processes (Competent)
• Transactional Procurement Management (Advanced)
• Commercial Negotiation (Competent)
• Project Management and Planning (Competent)
• Performance Management & Reporting (Competent)
• Systemic, knowledge-based problem-solving approach (Advanced)

Key Responsibilities:

• Embed safety, health, and sustainability requirements into sourcing and contracting processes.
• Ensure contractor performance aligns with delivery, safety, and social responsibility standards.
• Identify and drive value-creation opportunities through responsible sourcing and supplier engagement.

• Develop and implement category strategies that ensure security of supply, drive innovation, and deliver value.
• Manage sourcing events, negotiations, and contract execution across assigned categories.
• Lead key projects and adapt to changing business priorities in an agile supply chain environment.

• Support portfolio strategy through market intelligence, data analysis, and opportunity assessments.
• Drive cost optimization, Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), and value creation initiatives.
• Build and maintain strategic supplier relationships to promote innovation and long-term partnerships.
• Participate in contract negotiations, framework agreements, and commercial amendments.

• Oversee the full contract lifecycle from planning to execution and performance management.
• Monitor contract KPIs, supplier performance, and delivery against business objectives.
• Ensure accurate contract administration and alignment with supply chain systems and processes.

• Champion community development and inclusive procurement aligned to global and regional goals.
• Integrate inclusive procurement and supplier development objectives into commercial plans and contracts.
• Promote ESG-driven, sustainable supply chain initiatives focused on innovation and value creation.

• Partner with materials management and warehousing teams to align demand planning and performance.
• Drive digital transformation and continuous improvement within the supply chain.
• Ensure seamless handover of contracts to on-site teams and support operational implementation.