Category Manager

The Category Manager defines and executes global category and sourcing strategies that support business priorities while ensuring cost efficiency, supply assurance, quality, innovation, and risk mitigation. The role manages strategic supplier partnerships, drives procurement best practices, and works closely with cross-functional stakeholders to enhance supplier performance, maximize value creation, and contribute to Nokia's overall competitiveness and growth.

• Define and execute global category strategies that support business requirements, cost optimization, innovation, quality, and supply continuity.
• Lead supplier selection, onboarding, performance management, and relationship development across assigned categories.
• Drive strategic sourcing initiatives, RFx processes, contract negotiations, and supplier lifecycle management.
• Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to align procurement activities with business priorities and market dynamics.
• Monitor supplier performance, risks, market intelligence, and technology roadmaps to support informed decision-making.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, Source-to-Pay (S2P) processes, SOX requirements, and contractual obligations.
• Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities, manage savings reporting, and contribute to business competitiveness.
• Act as the primary escalation point for supplier-related issues while leading virtual teams and driving continuous improvement initiatives.

Must Have:

• Bachelors of Masters degree with relevant field with 10 plus years of experience in Procurement, Strategic Sourcing, Category Management, or Supply Chain Management within a global organization.
• Expertise in supplier relationship management, contract negotiations, RFx processes, and procurement lifecycle management.
• Proven experience in Transport & Logistics category management, with expertise in strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, contract negotiations, cost optimization, and risk management across global supply chains.
• Excellent stakeholder management, negotiation, communication, and influencing skills with the ability to work across global and multicultural teams.
• Familiar with Source-to-Pay (S2P), supplier quality management, compliance frameworks, and SOX requirements.
• Expertise in supply market intelligence, supplier development programs, and category optimization methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to lead virtual teams, manage complex projects, and drive transformation initiatives in a global matrix organization.

Nice to Have:

• Familiar in the Telecommunications, Technology, IT Services, or Network Infrastructure industry.