Job Summary

The experienced Procurement Category Manager – Services, EMEA will lead the strategic sourcing and category management of key non-commodity service categories across the EMEA region. This role covers multiple subcategories including Human Resources services, Facility Management, General & Professional Services, and Waste Management. The successful candidate will develop and execute procurement strategies that drive cost savings, improve supplier performance, ensure compliance, and support sustainability goals. You will collaborate closely with internal stakeholders and suppliers across diverse markets, acting as a trusted partner to deliver value and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and continuously improve category strategies for services procurement across EMEA, tailored to the unique requirements of each subcategory: Human Resources, Facility Management, Services, and Waste Management.
• Lead end-to-end sourcing activities including market analysis, supplier selection, RFx processes, negotiation, contracting, and supplier performance management.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and internal stakeholders to foster collaboration, innovation, and risk mitigation.
• Drive cost optimization initiatives through strategic sourcing, supplier consolidation, and process improvements while ensuring service quality and compliance.
• Conduct regular supplier performance reviews and business reviews to monitor contract adherence and identify improvement opportunities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including HR, Operations, Sustainability, and Finance to align procurement strategies with business needs
• Monitor market trends, regulatory changes, and emerging technologies to anticipate risks and opportunities within service categories.
• Ensure procurement activities comply with company policies, legal requirements, and ethical standards.
• Lead or support cross-regional projects and initiatives to standardize best practices across EMEA.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Procurement, or related field.
• Experience: Minimum 8 years of experience in procurement with a strong focus on indirect services categories, preferably managing multiple subcategories at a regional or multinational level.
• Skills:
• Proven expertise in strategic sourcing, supplier negotiation, contract management, and supplier relationship management within services procurement.
• Solid understanding of the Human Resources services, Facility Management, General & Professional Services, Waste Management markets, Lab services, and supplier landscapes.
• Hands-on experience with clear understanding of Collective Labor Agreements
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to leverage data and market intelligence for decision-making.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and influencing skills to work effectively across cultures and organizational levels.
• Experience with procurement technologies such as e-sourcing platforms, spend analytics, and contract management systems.
• Fluent in English; additional European languages are an advantage.
• Willingness to travel occasionally within the EMEA region.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional procurement certification (e.g., CIPS) or advanced degree (MBA, MSc).
• Experience in the food ingredients, FMCG, or manufacturing industries, with knowledge of sustainability and compliance requirements in services procurement.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex procurement projects.
• Familiarity with Collective Labor Agreements and supplier risk management frameworks related to service categories.

Personal Attributes

• Positive, proactive mindset with strong attention to detail.
• Collaborative team player who can operate independently and as part of cross-functional teams.
• Adaptable and resilient in managing evolving priorities and challenges.

What we Offer

At ofi, you'll join one of the world's leading food and agri-businesses, operating at the heart of global supply chains and sustainability initiatives. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape procurement strategies across a diverse EMEA region and directly influence business performance.