Senior Manager, Category Management

About the role

The Senior Manager, Category Management leads enterprise‑wide category planning, complex sourcing initiatives and strategic supplier relationships to deliver long‑term value for Adelaide University. Reporting to the Director, Procurement, the role influences senior stakeholders and embeds best‑practice procurement, sustainability, risk management and commercial excellence across the institution.

Key responsibilities

• Lead enterprise category management, complex sourcing and strategic supplier partnerships.
• Coach and develop high‑performing procurement professionals.
• Influence senior stakeholders and embed procurement best practices, sustainability and risk management.
• Shape category strategies, navigate complex commercial decisions and deliver outcomes supporting institutional priorities.

Required profile

• Postgraduate qualifications in procurement, business, commerce or related discipline, or equivalent experience.
• Extensive experience managing complex procurement categories and strategic sourcing in a large organisation.
• Proven ability to translate organisational priorities and market insights into category strategies delivering measurable commercial value.
• Strong executive stakeholder engagement, supplier relationship management and negotiation skills.
• Substantial leadership experience in procurement or category management, including coaching high‑performing teams.

Required skills

• Experience managing procurement risk, governance and compliance.
• Experience leading technology and professional services categories (highly regarded).