R&D Category Manager Expert

Job description

R&D Category Manager Expert Description - Job Summary The APJ R&D Labor Category Manager is responsible for managing a complex indirect procurement category focused on R&D contingent labor services. This role develops and executes sourcing strategies aligned with business objectives, drives supplier optimization, conducts market and spend analysis, leads contract negotiations, and manages strategic supplier relationships. As a recognized subject-matter expert, the individual partners with senior stakeholders to translate business priorities into procurement strategies and deliver value through cost optimization, risk mitigation, and operational excellence. Key Responsibilities Category Strategy & Sourcing Lead the APJ R&D Labor category and develop sourcing strategies that support business and procurement objectives. Assess market trends, labor benchmarks, and evolving business models to identify opportunities and risks. Translate stakeholder requirements into actionable category and sourcing plans. Conduct spend, pricing, supplier, competitive, and market analyses to support data-driven decision-making. Supplier Management & Negotiation Lead supplier selection activities, including supplier evaluations, RFx processes, and award recommendations. Drive supply base optimization through supplier rationalization and strategic supplier development. Manage day-to-day operations and performance of large, complex suppliers. Negotiate commercial agreements and contractual terms to achieve optimal business outcomes. Build strong supplier partnerships to enhance performance, innovation, and value creation. Contracting & Risk Management Identify and assess contract, commercial, and operational risks. Advise senior business leaders on risk mitigation, business continuity, and cost management strategies. Draft, review, and negotiate contracts using standard and customized templates. Ensure compliance with procurement policies, governance requirements, and contracting standards. Stakeholder & Cross-Functional Leadership Partner with senior stakeholders to align procurement strategies with business priorities. Provide procurement expertise, market intelligence, and strategic recommendations to leadership. Mentor and guide team members while supporting continuous improvement initiatives. Education & Experience Required Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, Finance, or a related discipline, or equivalent experience. 7–10 years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, supply chain management, or a related field. Experience managing contingent labor or professional services categories. Experience leading supplier negotiations and contract management activities. Preferred Advanced degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field. Experience working in a global, matrixed organization. Knowledge & Skills Strong understanding of global procurement processes, category management, and sourcing strategies. Expertise in contingent labor procurement, labor benchmarking, and supplier management. Strong knowledge of commercial negotiations and contracting principles. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and financial modeling skills. Ability to interpret complex data and translate insights into business recommendations. Experience conducting cost, supplier, market, and competitive analyses. Advanced proficiency in SAP Ariba, Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and procurement and sourcing applications Excellent communication, presentation, negotiation, and influencing skills. Ability to engage effectively with manager, director, and senior leadership levels. Strong project management and stakeholder management capabilities. Ability to work independently and exercise sound business judgment. Core Competencies Strategic Thinking Effective Communication Problem Solving & Results Orientation Customer Centricity Learning Agility Digital Fluency Collaboration & Influence Change Leadership Risk Management Continuous Improvement Disclaimer • This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed in this role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, skills, responsibilities, knowledge, and related areas. These may be subject to change, and additional functions may be assigned by management as needed. Job - Supply Chain & Operations Schedule - Full time Shift - No shift premium (India) Travel - Relocation - Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO) - HP, Inc. provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and prospective employees, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, sexual orientation, age, disability, or status as a protected veteran, marital status, familial status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic predisposition or carrier status, uniformed service status, political affiliation or any other characteristic protected by applicable national, federal, state, and local law(s). Please be assured that you will not be subject to any adverse treatment if you choose to disclose the information requested. This information is provided voluntarily. The information obtained will be kept in strict confidence. For more information, review HP’s EEO Policy or read about your rights as an applicant under the law here: “ Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal "