Category Buyer- Global Category Professional Services

OVERVIEW The Category Buyer for a Global Category executes sourcing events and negotiations at regional or country level within the defined global category strategy. The role manages RFx processes, supplier onboarding, and contract implementation, ensuring savings delivery, compliance, and service performance for Business Units across the region. Working closely with the Regional Category Manager, IT & Professional Services, the Category Buyer is the primary execution resource for sourcing activities in the assigned geography.

Role is based onsite in Erlanger, KY.WHAT YOU WILL DOExecute RFx events (RFQ/RFP/RFI) for the assigned category within the global sourcing framework defined by the GCM and RCM-Global.

Prepare RFQ templates, manage supplier responses, and conduct bid evaluations.

Develop negotiation packs and lead or support commercial negotiations with suppliers.

Finalize supplier selection recommendations in line with TCO evaluation criteria and global strategy.

Lead contract implementation activities, including finalization of scope, KPIs, penalties, and incentives.

Manage supplier onboarding in ERP/procurement systems.

Monitor contract compliance and escalate deviations to the RCM-Global.

Support periodic supplier performance reviews and maintain performance scorecards.

Coordinate with Operational Managers and Buyers to ensure smooth contract call-off and P2P execution.

Resolve purchase order and invoice queries related to the category.

Maintain accurate and up-to-date contract records in the CLM system.

Track savings delivery against sourcing initiatives and report to the RCM-Global.

Support spend analysis and market intelligence activities for the category.

Maintain category data and supplier records in relevant procurement platforms.

WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU5–7 years of professional experience, with at least 3 years in a strategic sourcing, or category analytics role Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, Finance, or related field.

CIPS foundation or equivalent procurement qualification preferred.

Demonstrated experience executing RFx processes (RFQ/RFP/RFI) and managing supplier negotiations.

Experience with contract implementation and supplier onboarding in a structured procurement environment.

Exposure to the specific regional Indirects category preferred.

Working knowledge of SAP ARIBA or equivalent e-sourcing and P2P platforms.

Experience working within a multi-OC or multi-country procurement environment is advantageous.

Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, Finance, or related field.

CIPS foundation or equivalent procurement qualification preferred.

Bilingual English/Spanish preferred. Ability to travel globally up to 10%
WHAT WE OFFERAt Perfetti Van Melle, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace, where all individuals, regardless of background or identity, are valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives to the sweet success of our candy-loving community. Additionally, we have a core value of  Care For Our People  and we are proud to offer benefit programs that support our team members' goals and well-being including:  PTO package including vacation, wellness, and pay it forward time off    13 paid holidays    401k with Company Match up to 8%, ranking in the top 1% of the country

Annual Bonus potential and merit-based increases

Comprehensive Health Insurance Annual well-being subsidy
20 weeks Maternity & 12 weeks Paternity leave options

Sam's Club or Costco annual membership reimbursement    Tuition-Free College Program or Free Continued Education (BA, Masters, Etc.)Modest monthly candy allotments (Airheads, Airheads Xtremes, and Mentos)2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 AND 2025 NKY Magazine Best Workplace in Northern Kentucky Join the Sweet Life by applying today!   Perfetti Van Melle, USA is an equal opportunity/non-discrimination employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.