Procurement Senior Category Lead - Office of Procurement

Position Specifics

The Office of Central Procurement is searching for a Senior Category Lead who will have University‑wide responsibility for creating and driving strategic sourcing and vendor management for the Scientific and Research Category Team. This role supports all units and colleges that are active in the assigned category.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. This position offers a flexible arrangement that combines remote and on‑campus work. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

• Act as a strategic business partner, providing leadership and strategic planning for the designated category.
• Develop and implement annual and multi‑year category strategies to achieve category goals and deliver sustainable value.
• Conduct supplier relationship management, spend performance management, and market analysis.
• Manage category contract execution and governance for all stakeholders.
• Assign workload, monitor cycle time, identify efficiencies, and provide status updates to procurement leadership and customers.
• Coach and mentor buying team members, fostering a high‑performance team environment.

• Extensive knowledge of category, market, and suppliers to drive value and savings.
• High analytical skill to develop detailed reporting, evaluate proposals, and analyze purchasing data and trends.
• Strong communication skills to create and maintain sustainable partnerships internally and externally, relaying complex information objectively and adaptively.

• Bachelor’s Degree with 8+ years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Preferred:
  Professional certifications such as CPSM or CPM.
• Preferred:
  Recent experience with purchasing, data analysis, RFXs, negotiation, contracts, e‑procurement, and proficiency in MS Excel, Word, and Outlook.

• Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
• Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. and Penn State does not sponsor visas.

• Salary range: $72,300.00 – $.
• Competitive benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision coverage; robust retirement plans; paid time off (holidays, vacation, sick time); and a generous 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473.

Penn State embraces equity, respect, and belonging. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.