Senior Category Specialist

Senior Category Specialist

Operating Division: Transnet Corporate Centre

Employee Group: Permanent

Department: ISCM,Category Mgmt Fuel, Fleet & UTI,GRP

Location: Johannesburg

Reporting To: Category Manager

Grade: E

Reference: req5285

The closing date is on 07/07/2026. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that HR has received the application before the closing date of the advertisement.

Position Purpose

• Provide thought leadership for developing Group-Wide category strategies across different operating

divisions.

• Compile the groupwide category strategy inclusive of all commodities in the category and lead the implementation of the transversal strategic sourcing initiatives within subcategory, including running the tender process and collating pack for adjudication evaluation and communicating award decision.
• Develop all the enabling tools for the category such the cost modelling techniques, de-construction of cost structures and the category procurement index model.
• Continuously identify cost saving initiatives for the Transversal categories and facilitate the groupwide implementation of the initiative.
• Compile the negotiation strategy and tactics for the category procurement events.

Position Outputs

Oversee creation of a category purchasing strategy and review thereof for assigned spend categories

Develop business change strategies in order to transform current operations, using new strategies and Procurement operating models

 Provide expert support to subcategory management teams at group and all ODs for the specific categories to create a ‘fact-based’ decision making approach by leveraging all available data sources.  Develop supplier market analysis protocols and perform supplier base assessment and visit as part of the extended Supply market analysis  Develop and compile category sourcing plans for the group  Implementation and continuous adaptation of category intelligence database and templates for dynamic cost models for the different subcategories to achieve best TCO alternatives  Responsible for assisting in all aspects of the groupwide subcategory management process for all ODs, including but not limited to developing category strategies, monitoring performance and compliance, managing communications, and developing joint process improvement opportunities with all OD stakeholders

 Provide regular insights to all stakeholders in ODs pertaining to developments in supply markets ad and assumptions and future trends of the category  Establishing category and subcategory cross-functional teams and subject matter expert (SME) technical forums for the transversal categories and associated commodities forums  Developing the stakeholder management strategy for the category and incorporating the Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) Facilitate and coordinate supplier relationships leveraging internal subcategory and supplier expertise to create a “healthy” interaction  Provide coaching and training for other category specialist  Keeping all subcategory stakeholders abreast with relevant industry trends and developments

Research / Analysis  Assist Category Manager to analyse and report on supplier performance  Provide analytical support for new targets and expectation Category Management Support  Drive category strategy / execution across the Procurement process  Support on analytics as required to drive strategy in the subcategory, development of fact-based packs leading up to negotiations and contracting processes (cost models, cost drivers, should cost and TCO)  Assist in internal process improvement efforts for plan creation and facilitation of results  Support development of change management plans and communication plans

Qualifications and Experience

Qualifications, Experience & Inherent Job Requirements  Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in relevant field  MBA or related postgraduate qualification advantageous  8-12 years of related operational category management/strategic sourcing experience  PFMA, PPPFA and public sector Procurement experience  Category specific operations experience (ICT, Engineering, Maintenance, etc) will be advantageous  MCIPS certification will be advantageous Standard Job Requirements  Driver’s license code 08  Travel as required and approved Competencies

Anchoring the Transnet Way Is a conceptual and analytical thinker Is results focused Is courageous Is resilient Is emotionally intelligent Is an excellent communicator and regulator Leading the Transnet Way Is visionary and inspiring Is strategic Is collaborative Is innovative and entrepreneurial Has impact and influence Is a change agent Managing the Transnet Way Optimises business performance Manages finances Manages people & teams Delights customers Manages programs, projects & contracts Manages risk and compliance Sustaining the Transnet Way Empowers and develops others Is inquisitive and develops self Manages and shares information Role models the culture and values Embraces diversity Has the right skills Equity Statement

Preference will be given to suitably qualified Applicants who are members of the designated groups in line with the Employment Equity Plan and Targets of the Organisation/Operating Division.