Category Lead Procurement – Supplier Transition

Start Date: ASAP

Employment Type: Full-time

Work Schedule: 2 to 3 office days per week

Language Requirements: Dutch and English

Role Description:

As a Consultant Procurement Category Lead – Supplier Transition, you will be instrumental in a significant transformation program. Your primary responsibility will be to manage a portfolio of suppliers, ensuring that contractual, commercial, and operational conditions are aligned with the new business model. This role demands strong procurement expertise and effective stakeholder management.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute sourcing and negotiation strategies for assigned suppliers.
• Lead end-to-end supplier negotiations, including resell rights, contract amendments, and commercial conditions.
• Serve as the single point of contact for key suppliers during the transition.
• Ensure contractual compliance in collaboration with the Legal team.
• Translate business needs into clear negotiation strategies and outcomes.
• Protect and optimize the commercial position, addressing volume risks and pricing impacts.
• Identify and escalate risks that may affect timelines, outcomes, or service continuity.
• Support the overall program roadmap, including preparation for long-term supplier transition.

Requirements & Qualifications:

• Strong experience in procurement, sourcing, or category management.

• Proven track record in supplier negotiations.
• Solid understanding of contracting and supplier relationship management.
• Experience working in complex, multi-stakeholder environments (Procurement, Business, Legal, Program teams).
• Ability to operate in a fast-paced, transformation environment with tight deadlines.

Must-Have Skills:

• Hands-on procurement/category management experience.

• Strong negotiation skills with suppliers.
• Good knowledge of contracts and legal/commercial frameworks.
• Ability to manage supplier relationships independently.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Results-driven, hands-on, and pragmatic mindset.

Nice-to-Have Skills:

• Experience in telecom, IT, or network-related procurement.

• Experience with large transformation programs or carve-outs.
• Basic project management capabilities.
• Ability to balance legal, operational, and commercial perspectives.
• Political awareness and ability to navigate complex stakeholder landscapes.