Category Manager | Mon - Fri | 6 Month Contract | Balcatta, WA

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An experienced Category Manager is sought for a 6-month contract at Sodexo in Balcatta, WA to lead strategic sourcing and category management across HR Systems, Technology Data & Digital, Labour Hire and Pre-Employment Medical Services, delivering value across quality, cost and service. You will develop category strategies, drive procurement, manage supplier performance and contracts, and support bid and mobilisation with strong stakeholder collaboration. Ideal candidates have 5 to 10 years in procurement or category management, proven success in indirect spend, and solid negotiation, analytics and project management skills, plus a degree in Business or Supply Chain. To apply, tailor your resume to quantify cost savings and supplier improvements, attach availability, and prepare for a recruiter phone screen; Sodexo is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity.

Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Category Manager for a 6-month contract to support Sodexo Australia's Supply Management function. This role will lead strategic sourcing and category management activities across a portfolio including HR Systems, Technology, Data & Digital (TDD), Labour Hire, and Pre-Employment Medical Services.

Reporting into the Head of Indirect & Fleet Procurement, you will set the strategic direction for assigned categories, deliver sourcing initiatives from source-to-contract, and drive value across quality, cost, delivery, customer service, and sustainability outcomes. The role will also support procurement activities during bid and mobilisation phases while partnering with key stakeholders to deliver commercial and operational success.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category strategies across HR Systems, TDD, Labour Hire, and Pre-Employment Medical categories
• Lead end-to-end procurement activities, from sourcing and tender management through to contract negotiation and supplier onboarding
• Deliver commercial outcomes aligned to quality, cost, service, risk, and sustainability objectives
• Manage supplier performance and contract governance to maximise value and drive continuous improvement
• Provide procurement support throughout bid and mobilisation phases, including project management responsibilities for allocated tenders
• Partner with internal stakeholders to understand business requirements and deliver fit-for-purpose procurement solutions
• Identify and implement opportunities for cost optimisation, process improvement, and supplier innovation
• Ensure compliance with Sodexo procurement policies, governance requirements, and ethical sourcing standards
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders across the business
• Support risk management activities and ensure continuity of supply across critical categories

About You

You are a commercially astute procurement professional with strong category management experience across indirect spend categories. You have a proven track record of delivering strategic sourcing initiatives, managing complex supplier relationships, and engaging stakeholders across multiple business functions.

You bring excellent negotiation, analytical, and project management capabilities, alongside the ability to influence outcomes and drive value through procurement best practices.

Qualifications & Experience

• 5-10 years' experience within Procurement, Supply Chain, or Category Management roles
• Demonstrated experience leading strategic sourcing and procurement activities across indirect spend categories
• Experience managing one or more of the following categories is highly regarded:
  • HR Systems
  • Technology, Data & Digital (TDD)
  • Labour Hire
  • Pre-Employment Medical Services
• Strong commercial acumen with proven contract negotiation and supplier management experience
• Experience supporting procurement activities through tender, bid, and mobilisation phases
• Excellent stakeholder engagement, communication, and influencing skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with a focus on delivering measurable business outcomes
• Degree qualification in Business, Supply Chain Management, Procurement, or a related discipline

Why choose Sodexo?  
Sodexo is a people business, employing over half a million people worldwide and thousands here in Australia. Our employees, who personify Sodexo's unique values of Service Spirit, Team Spirit and Spirit of Progress, are our greatest asset through their commitment and dedication. We believe the more diverse we are, the stronger we are. No matter your background, we will do all we can to help you thrive. We are committed to promoting equal opportunities, valuing diversity, and creating an inclusive working environment for all our employees.  At Sodexo, we are a proud Equal Opportunity Employer and encourage applications from all applicants regardless of age, race, sex, ethnicity, religion and beliefs and people with disabilities. 
We offer a competitive salary, flexible work environment, many development opportunities and an outstanding benefits and recognition program!   

How to apply?  
If you are interested in joining the Sodexo team and meet the minimum criteria outlined above, please apply with your resume detailing relevant employment experience  and availability. One of our friendly recruiters will contact shortlisted candidates for a phone interview. This will also be your opportunity to ask any questions you may have.  

Submit your application today and become part of the Sodexo family!