Category Manager

About the role

SET is seeking a Category Manager to join the Sourcing and Supplier Management team of a leading telecommunications organisation. Reporting to the Director of Regional Sourcing, you will lead the sourcing function for a specific spend area, partnering cross‑functionally to ensure best‑in‑class product quality and cost efficiency.

Key responsibilities

• Plan, direct and implement complex business strategies, setting short‑ and long‑range objectives, performance goals and metrics for each spend category.
• Design and develop sourcing strategies, manage tactical programs, adapt to market changes and create cost‑reduction initiatives.
• Analyze internal and external research to keep commodity strategies current, identify risks and leverage insights for value creation.
• Identify and manage operational risks while encouraging innovation and opportunity.
• Advise stakeholders on supply‑chain best practices, supplier base knowledge and negotiation tactics.
• Lead the team in developing strategic supplier partnerships that enhance total value.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree (4 years) – preferably in Engineering, Business or Supply Management.
• Professional certifications such as CPM, CPSM or CPIM are highly preferred.
• Strong organisational, planning and project‑management abilities.
• Proven leadership skills with experience motivating and guiding a team.
• Ability to work with diverse functional groups and across African markets.
• Willingness to travel up to 5 % of the time.

Required skills