Manager, Indirect Spend
WFA Digital Insight
In the current remote job market, demand for skilled procurement professionals is on the rise, with a 25% increase in job openings over the past year. The Manager, Indirect Spend role at Highline Warren stands out for its focus on strategic category planning and execution. To succeed, candidates need strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills, as well as experience in category management and procurement. With the shift to remote work, companies are looking for professionals who can manage complex sourcing events and develop effective sourcing processes. Before applying, candidates should be prepared to showcase their understanding of the end-to-end procurement lifecycle and their ability to lead and mentor procurement teams.
Job Description
About the Role
The Manager, Indirect Spend plays a crucial role in leading the development and execution of strategic category plans and sourcing initiatives across assigned Indirect Spend categories. This role requires close partnership with cross-functional stakeholders and external suppliers to deliver effective, transparent sourcing processes that support business needs and enterprise objectives. As a key member of the procurement team, the Manager, Indirect Spend will be responsible for driving cost savings and value creation through strategic sourcing initiatives.The day-to-day responsibilities of this role will involve developing and executing complex sourcing events, managing a robust opportunity pipeline, and working closely with stakeholders to understand business requirements and develop strategies that meet or exceed established targets. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the end-to-end procurement lifecycle, policies, and governance, as well as strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
The Manager, Indirect Spend will report to a senior leader in the procurement organization and will be responsible for leading and mentoring a team of procurement professionals. This role will require strong communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to work effectively in a remote environment.
What You Will Do
- Develop and execute strategic category plans and sourcing initiatives across assigned Indirect Spend categories
- Partner with cross-functional stakeholders and external suppliers to deliver effective, transparent sourcing processes
- Develop and manage a robust opportunity pipeline to deliver cost savings and value creation
- Lead and execute complex sourcing events, including RFPs, RFIs, and auctions
- Analyze spend data, market intelligence, and business requirements to develop strategies that meet or exceed established targets
- Work closely with stakeholders to understand business requirements and develop strategies that support business needs and enterprise objectives
- Manage and mentor a team of procurement professionals to ensure effective sourcing processes and strategies
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with external suppliers and internal stakeholders
- Stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices in procurement and sourcing
- Collaborate with other teams, such as finance and operations, to ensure alignment and effective implementation of sourcing strategies
What We Are Looking For
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, or a related field, or equivalent experience
- Minimum of 8 years of experience in category management, strategic sourcing, or procurement within a mid-to-large organization
- Experience managing Indirect spend categories, such as operations, logistics, facilities, corporate services, IT, or professional services
- Minimum of 3 years of experience leading, mentoring, or developing procurement professionals
- Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) or Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) certification preferred
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work effectively in a remote environment
Nice to Have
- Experience with procurement software and systems, such as SAP or Oracle
- Knowledge of procurement best practices and industry trends
- Experience with data analysis and spend management
- Certification in a related field, such as supply chain management or logistics
- Experience working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
Benefits and Perks
- Full-time remote work arrangement
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Opportunity to work with a leading organization in the industry
- Professional development and growth opportunities
- Access to cutting-edge procurement software and systems
- Flexible working hours and work-life balance
- Recognition and reward programs for outstanding performance
- Comprehensive health and wellness programs
- Retirement savings plan and matching program
- Paid time off and holidays
- Remote work stipend and equipment allowance
How to Stand Out
- Develop a strong understanding of the end-to-end procurement lifecycle and procurement best practices to stand out in the application process.
- Showcase your analytical and problem-solving skills by providing examples of complex sourcing events you have managed and the cost savings you have achieved.
- Highlight your experience working in a remote environment and your ability to manage and mentor a team of procurement professionals.
- Be prepared to discuss your experience with procurement software and systems, and how you have used data analysis and spend management to drive business decisions.
- Research the company and the role thoroughly to understand the business needs and enterprise objectives, and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to the organization's success.
- Consider obtaining certifications such as CPM or CPSM to demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field.
- Practice your communication and interpersonal skills to ensure you can effectively partner with cross-functional stakeholders and external suppliers.
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