Principal Category Leader

Responsibilities:

• Act as a subject matter expert for assigned categories or services within the industry.
• Develop and implement category strategies and sourcing plans for high-complexity spend areas to optimize cost, mitigate risk, and ensure supply continuity.
• Lead competitive sourcing events including RFIs, RFPs, and negotiations to secure best-value agreements.
• Negotiate, draft, and manage contracts in compliance with regulatory requirements, corporate policies, and industry standards.
• Build and maintain strategic supplier relationships, conduct performance reviews, and drive innovation and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Partner with cross-functional stakeholders to develop and execute sourcing and negotiation strategies.
• Monitor industry trends, supplier markets, and regulatory changes to support strategic decision-making.
• Conduct market research and supplier risk analysis to assess financial stability and capability.
• Support senior leadership in strategic planning and decision-making at the executive level.

Required Skills And Experience:

• Bachelor s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 8 years of experience in sourcing or procurement.
• Proven experience leading complex sourcing initiatives and high-value negotiations.
• Strong analytical skills with experience in spend analysis, cost modeling, and procurement tools.
• Experience developing category strategies and managing supplier relationships.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 10+ years of experience in procurement, sourcing, or supply chain management, preferably within utility, energy, or infrastructure sectors.
• Experience sourcing IT, consulting/professional services, construction-related services, or materials.
• Expertise in contract structuring and supplier performance management.
• Familiarity with procurement systems such as SAP, Ariba, or similar platforms.
• Master s degree in Business Administration or related discipline.

Soft Skills:

• Strong communication and negotiation skills.
• Ability to influence senior stakeholders and executive leadership.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work across cross-functional teams.
• Strong leadership and team-building capabilities.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• Strategic thinking with a focus on continuous improvement and innovation.