Category Manager, Benefits

Optimize is the procurement capability of the firm creating leading solutions and experiences across our supplier ecosystem, enabling colleagues and the firm to live our purpose confidently.

We are structured as 7 categories (Real Estate, Travel, External Workers, HR/Benefits, Learning, External Client Capabilities, and Events) and 7 functions (Purchasing, Risk, Sustainable Procurement, Operations, Tech Enablement Solutions and Strategic Planning).

You'll work in our office as a member of our expanding Category Management team in shaping and implementing strategies that modernize and globalize our distinctive suit of benefits that enable our colleagues to thrive.

You will collaborate with Global and Local Benefit leads to identify and action opportunities to expand colleague experience and reduce costs without compromising quality or employee satisfaction.

You will evaluate the current supplier landscape and identify opportunities for rationalization and consolidation, streamlining the supplier base to reduce complexity, improve efficiency and leverage economies of scale.

You will develop and implement disciplined supplier management practices within your supplier portfolio and manage key performance indicators to ensure optimal suppler performance.

As a Category Manager, you will steer the long-term direction of Local Benefits / HR Services category management, aligning initiatives with the firm's strategic goals.

Your role will involve developing strategic plans, leading cross-functional teams, fostering high-impact supplier partnerships, and driving innovation and efficiency across the procurement process.

You will have an opportunity to lead an at-scale critical $50M+ Benefits/HR Services portfolio of the firm across hundreds of suppliers. Your performance will be evaluated against key metrics, including the realization of a Benefits/HR Services category strategy supporting the business strategy (i.e., wellness), financial impact, adherence to sustainable procurement & risk standards, colleague experience and the strategic growth of the category.

• minimum 5+ years' experience in benefits category management

• Strong negotiation and influencing skills

• Ability to work effectively and collaboratively with others in a team environment

• Ability to lead and work with minimum guidance

• Recognized ability to interact with suppliers, senior business partners and other relevant stakeholders including risk and legal to ensure proper risk mitigation and alignment with business objectives

• Experience with supplier management

• International experience, knowledge of markets by regions

• A recognized qualification in health and welfare would be considered an asset e.g., SHRM., CBP or CEBS

• A recognized qualification in procurement would be considered an asset e.g., CPSM

• University degree, advanced degree preferred