Category Specialist

Job Purpose / Objective

The Strategic Procurement Specialist is responsible for executing category procurement strategies through strategic sourcing initiatives, supplier relationship management, and contract administration (post-award). The role involves implementing best practices for procurement activities, negotiating framework agreements, and managing high-value purchase orders. The specialist collaborates with end users and suppliers to identify cost-saving opportunities and ensure effective category management.

Key Accountabilities

Category Management & Strategy Execution

Develop technical and commercial expertise within the procurement category.

Define category spend, preferred supplier policies, and implement category strategies in compliance with policies and procedures.

Continuously analyse internal requirements and external market dynamics to inform category strategy.

Assist in short-, mid-, and long-term demand forecasts with Maintenance, Finance, and Procurement teams.

Recommend levers (commercial and non-commercial) to maximize value from procurement spend.

Execute category strategies, including framework agreements, contract negotiations, and initiatives for managed categories.

Conduct category risk management and develop mitigation plans.

Strategic Sourcing

Conduct sourcing projects, including RFP preparation, pricing review, contract drafting, and supplier engagement.

Develop and manage supplier portfolios aligned with category goals.

Monitor supply markets and agreements to ensure sustainable benefits.

Manage tenders, ensuring compliance with procedures, policies, and legal requirements.

Support supplier selection, contract development, and negotiation strategies.

Integrate new suppliers and manage operational transitions.

Supplier Management & Contracts Administration

Define supplier qualification criteria and develop Supplier Relationship Management plans.

Conduct supplier performance evaluations and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Maintain risk registers and contractor performance data for decision-making.

Facilitate communication and act as escalation point for supplier issues.

Manage Contracts Administration process including variations, claims, and disputes.

Development & Knowledge Sharing

Actively seek feedback and pursue professional development opportunities.

Participate in knowledge retention, sharing, and documentation of best practices.

Policies, Systems, Processes & Procedures

Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in procurement systems and practices.

Support the development of departmental systems, policies, processes, and procedures.

Prepare supporting documents for Tender Committees.

Approve contract awards within defined limits.

Ensure compliance with company Code of Conduct, regulations, policies, and standards.

Quality, Health, Safety & Environment (QHSSE)

Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and relevant QHSSE procedures to guarantee employee safety and high-quality delivery.

Reporting

Provide timely and accurate reports on procurement activities, tender progress, and strategic sourcing events.

Qatarization

Support the development of Qatari employees (for expatriate staff).

Requirements

Education

Required : Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Supply Chain, or related field.

Preferred : Postgraduate qualification in Contract Management or Project Management.

Experience

Required : 3-5 years of multi-disciplinary experience, with at least 2 years in Oil & Gas, Petrochemical, or industrial procurement, including 1-2 years in strategic procurement.

Preferred : 5-7 years of experience in O&G / Petrochemical industry at a specialist / professional level in strategic procurement.

Skills & Competencies

International certifications (CIPS, CSCP, SCMA, ISM) preferred.

Proficiency in SAP (including SAP Ariba) and MS Office.

Strong negotiation, communication, and conflict management skills.

Ability to work in cross-functional, multi-disciplinary teams.

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