Category Manager (Lisbon- Hybrid)

We're fast learners, hard workers, natural collaborators... and we Make Modern Happen!

Our ambition is to unlock the potential of our digital world so that organisations everywhere can innovate and thrive securely. We aim to achieve this goal by bringing together the world’s most talented people and the most powerful technologies, combining them to address our customers' challenges and to build something stronger together.

If you share our vision, join us!

Right now, we are looking for a Category Manager for a client on our Talent Team.

Your responsibilities include:

· Develop and execute the procurement strategy for assigned categories in alignment with business objectives, programme requirements and global procurement guidelines.

· Conduct market analysis, supplier mapping and technology scouting to identify opportunities, risks and industry trends.

· Define and implement long-term category roadmaps, including cost reduction initiatives, supplier consolidation and dual-sourcing strategies.

· Select, negotiate with and manage strategic suppliers, ensuring performance across cost, quality, delivery and compliance metrics.

· Lead supplier evaluations, contract negotiations and long-term agreement management.

· Drive supplier development initiatives, risk mitigation plans and recovery actions when required.

· Support space programmes by ensuring the timely availability of critical materials, components and systems.

· Collaborate closely with Engineering, Programme Management, Supply Chain, Quality, Finance and Compliance teams.

· Influence design-to-cost and make-or-buy decisions to optimise value and competitiveness.

· Ensure procurement deliverables, including cost, planning, risk management and documentation, are achieved throughout programme lifecycles.

· Ensure compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, including Export Control frameworks.

· Provide guidance to Commodity Specialists and contribute to the continuous improvement of procurement processes, tools and best practices.

· Represent the category within governance forums and in interactions with senior leadership.

You must have:

· Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business or a related field.

· 5-8+ years of procurement experience, ideally within aerospace, defence or high-tech industries.

· Strong knowledge of direct procurement, supplier management and strategic sourcing processes.

· Proven experience in supplier negotiations, contract management and relationship management.

· Demonstrated ability to develop category strategies and execute complex procurement activities.

· Experience managing supplier performance, risk and compliance.

· Knowledge of Export Control regulations and compliance requirements.

· Strong analytical, strategic thinking and stakeholder management skills.

· Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.

· Fluent English.

We value:

· Experience within the space, aerospace or defence sectors.

· Familiarity with space systems, components and industrial supply chains.

· Experience managing long-cycle, high-technology procurement categories such as electronics, propulsion, optics or composites.

· Experience in global sourcing and supplier development.

· Previous leadership experience, either within small teams or cross-functional/virtual teams.

· Ability to influence technical and business stakeholders across international environments.

· Experience working within highly regulated industries and complex supply chains.

· Additional language skills beyond English.

· Ability to thrive in fast-paced, evolving and ambiguous environments.

We offer:

• Integration into a dynamic and motivated team to perform the role.
  
• Additional training.
  
• Salary package in line with the responsibilities of the role.
  
• Professional growth and career development opportunities.
  

Workplace: Lisbon - Hybrid

Claranet, Make modern happen!