Job Purpose: The Regional Category Manager is responsible for developing and executing a the regional procurement strategy for a specific category of direct materials, aligning with the Global Category Manager and business objectives. The role drives cost optimization, supplier innovation, risk management, and value creation on a regional scale through effective supplier relationship management, market analysis, and cross-functional collaboration.

Key Responsibilities:
A comprehensive, data-driven regional sourcing strategy (including goal setting and roadmap building) aligned with VH business objectives.
A sustainable implementation of the global category strategy leveraging Regional Procurement Office Teams and Regional Category Manager based on a transparent follow-up process.
Strong, long-term partnerships with strategic suppliers ensure supply continuity, and deliver cost efficiencies, quality and in time supplies.
Regional supplier base is developed and optimized in collaboration with Global Category Manger (identification, selection and qualification)
Long term development plans
Negotiation and Contract Management
Cross-functional Collaboration
Robust risk management plan, including supplier audits and contingency planning, to mitigate supply chain disruptions and ensure compliance with global regulations.
Sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) criteria into the category strategy, contributing to long-term environmental and social goals.

Requirements:
Minimum 5-8 years of experience in strategic sourcing, category management, or procurement in a global environment, ideally within a relevant industry. Proven track record in managing complex global categories with multi-million euro spend. Extensive experience in supplier negotiations and global contract management.
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or related fields.
Proficiency in developing global category strategies that optimize cost, value, and risk, and align with business objectives. Ability to manage a multi-million euro spend portfolio across multiple regions and stakeholders.
Expertise in building strong, collaborative supplier partnerships and negotiating complex contracts, with a focus on long-term value and risk mitigation.
Strong ability to analyse market trends, cost structures, and supplier performance data, translating insights into actionable strategies.
Risk & Compliance Management
Knowledge of sustainability trends and requirements, with the ability to integrate sustainability metrics into category strategies to meet corporate goals.