Senior Category Manager - Definity, Waterloo

About the role

Join a forward-thinking procurement team that plays a critical role in supporting Definity's Technology Services Organization. We are seeking a strategic sourcing expert and highly motivated Procurement Sourcing Partner who thrives in a fast-paced, regulated environment and is passionate about delivering value through strong vendor partnerships and risk-aware sourcing.

What you'll bring

• 7-10 years' experience in a similar role within a corporate / business environment with direct experience in negotiating and drafting agreements
• An effective communicator, influencer and negotiator with strong interpersonal skills
• Solution oriented strategic thinker and demonstrates analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a data-driven approach to decision-making
• Proficiency in the development of executive level presentation materials
• Your negotiation, presentation, facilitation, project management and planning expertise are second to none
• Highly organized with attention to detail and work effectively in a fast-paced environment, prioritize tasks and meet deadlines
• Seasoned procurement professional with a full understanding of applicable legislation and industry best practices related to contract agreements
• An asset to have experience using a variety of procurement tools including dynamic sourcing tools, auctions, spend analytics, procure-to-pay, contract lifecycle management, vendor management and third-party risk management
• Completion of post-secondary education (university degree or public college diploma), and potentially CSCMP designation (the latter is an asset but not required)

Key duties

As a Sourcing Partner supporting the Technology Services department, you will build and execute sourcing strategies for complex and high dollar value engagements. Your core responsibilities include:

• Leading RFx/competitive bid processes including the negotiation strategy and/or support on contract negotiations with vendors to deliver value and savings to the organization
• Conducting financial reviews and cost comparisons
• Performing external market and vendor analysis, including analyzing purchasing trends and data
• Establishing category strategy and collaborating with internal stakeholders to understand business needs
• Liaising with external vendor partners and creating presentations for senior leaders and executives
• Collecting appropriate artifacts and completing required internal documents like contract summaries
• Managing contracts in partnership with Legal Services to resolve problems, handle renewals or terminations, and interpret terms and conditions
• Managing risk in partnership with second line risk functions to assess and mitigate organizational risk, ensuring compliance with regulations like OSFI B-10
• Developing and maintaining strong working relationships with internal stakeholders and external vendor partners
• Independently facilitating information gathering sessions, establishing reliable schedules, and managing multiple priorities simultaneously
• Conducting comprehensive market research and supplier evaluations to identify potential vendors and assess capabilities

Perks and benefits

• Hybrid work schedule for most roles
• Company share ownership program
• Incentive Program subject to individual and company performance
• Pension and savings programs, with company-matched RRSP contributions
• Paid volunteer days and company matching on charitable donations
• Educational resources, tuition assistance, and paid time off to study for exams
• Focus on inclusion with employee groups, support for gender affirmation surgery, access to BIPOC counsellors, and programs for working parents
• Wellness and recognition programs
• Discounts on products and services