Category Manager

Job Description
In this role, you will lead strategic sourcing initiatives, negotiate contracts, and analyze market trends to inform decisions. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams and utilize procurement platforms like SAP Ariba and Coupa to streamline processes. Strong communication and analytical skills are essential to influence stakeholders and achieve sustainable results.

How You Will Contribute And What You Will Learn

• Develop and implement category strategies that achieve cost savings and enhance supplier performance.
• Manage supplier relationships through effective negotiation and contract execution.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align sourcing initiatives with business objectives.
• Analyze market trends and data insights to drive informed procurement decisions.
• Engage and influence stakeholders at all levels to foster alignment on sourcing strategies.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of procurement processes and sourcing methodologies.
• Utilize procurement tools to streamline processes and optimize sourcing effectiveness.
• Adapt to changing priorities and challenges in a fast-paced business environment.

Key Skills And Experience
Must-Have:

• 5–7 years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, or category management in a multinational environment.
• Proven track record of executing category strategies that achieve cost savings and improve supplier performance.
• Strong negotiation skills with experience managing supplier relationships and executing contracts.
• Exceptional communication skills, capable of engaging stakeholders at all organizational levels.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and devise actionable sourcing strategies.

Nice-To-Have:

• Master's degree or professional certification (e.g., CIPS, CPSM).
• Familiarity with procurement tools such as SAP Ariba or Coupa.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt in dynamic environments.
• Experience working cross-functionally with various business units.
• Persuasive storytelling capabilities to drive stakeholder buy-in.

About Us
Advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world.
Nokia is a global leader in connectivity for the AI era. With expertise across fixed, mobile and transport networks, powered by the innovation of Nokia Bell Labs, we're advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world.

Learn more about life at Nokia .

About The Business Group
Join Mobile Networks (MN) and help us become the trusted partner of choice for Communications Service Providers (CSPs), as well as for non-CSP entities in sectors like utilities, transportation, public services, and defense. Your work will contribute to delivering unbeatable customer experiences in wireless connectivity.

In the Chief Operating Officer (COO) Unit, you'll help elevate Mobile Networks operations to a world-class level. You'll contribute to enabling MN to achieve both short-term performance and long-term profitability, driving operational excellence across the business.

Our recruitment process
We act inclusively and respect the uniqueness of people. Our employment decisions are made regardless of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. We are committed to a culture of inclusion built upon our core value of respect.

If you're interested in this role but don't meet every listed requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences enrich our teams, and you may be just the right candidate for this or another opportunity.

The length of the recruitment process may vary depending on the specific role's requirements. We strive to ensure a smooth and inclusive experience for all candidates. Discover more about the recruitment process at Nokia .

About The Team
Some of our benefits in Portugal :

• Flexible working arrangements and additional flex benefits to support work–life balance
• A minimum of 90 days of Maternity and Paternity Leave, with the option to return to work within a year following the birth or adoption of a child (based on eligibility)
• Medical and life insurance plan, plus paid sick leave for added security
• Meal allowance to support daily needs
• Car allowance based on eligibility
• Well-being programs to support your mental and physical health
• Opportunities to engage with Nokia Employee Resource Groups (NERGs), as well as access to mentors, coaches, and Employee Growth Solutions
• A learning culture that promotes continuous personal and professional growth – for your role and beyond