Global Procurement Category Manager - Corporate Services

Who We Are

Suntory is a global leader in consumer-packaged goods, renowned for producing and distributing a uniquely diverse portfolio of beverages, premium spirits, beer, wine, and wellness products throughout the world. With a history dating back to 1899, we are driven by a profound purpose: To inspire the brilliance of life, by creating rich experiences for people, in harmony with nature. At Suntory Beverage and Food, we boldly move forward together to realize the dreams of becoming a world-leading next-generation global beverage company, always together with Seikatsusha – you are an important part of this and here’s how your role helps us win.

About your role

This role is responsible for developing, communicating, and driving the implementation of the Procurement vision, objectives, and strategy for the global Corporate Services category within the Asia region. The scope of “ Corporate Services” include IT, Professional and HR services and limited support on Travel, Fleet and Facility Management. It plays a key role in transforming Procurement into a value-adding business partner across global and regional operations.

The position focuses on leading category transformation, strengthening supplier relationships, and delivering maximum value to SBF markets while supporting business growth and operational excellence.

What You'll Do

Category Strategy & Execution

• Develop and lead global category strategy, including sourcing plans, governance, and roadmap (MTP), aligned with business goals across cost, quality, risk, innovation, and sustainability
• Drive sourcing strategy execution across global, regional, and local levels; validate supplier selection decisions
• Leverage market intelligence to anticipate trends, risks, and opportunities, and implement best-in-class category management practices
• Influence senior stakeholders to ensure alignment and successful delivery

Cost Optimization & Financial Management

• Own financial targets, budgeting cycles (AOP/MTP), and cost/value optimization programs
• Lead savings initiatives, validate KPIs, and develop business cases to support strategic decisions

Performance & Reporting

• Define and monitor category KPIs, including savings and performance metrics
• Manage reporting and communication to procurement leadership and key stakeholders

Supplier & Stakeholder Management

• Manage strategic supplier relationships, including SRM governance, supplier development, and SLA performance
• Partner with and influence senior stakeholders to drive procurement strategy execution and change management

Leadership & Capability Building

• Lead and develop category teams through coaching, performance management, and capability building
• Drive collaboration across regions, functions, and business units while fostering a positive team environment

Market Intelligence, Innovation, Risk & ESG

• Monitor industry trends and drive innovation with suppliers and internal teams
• Lead risk management, including business continuity planning and compliance with procurement policies
• Embed ESG and sustainability initiatives into category strategy and execution

What You need to be successful

Background & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical, business, or economics discipline (procurement specialization is a plus)
• Minimum 10 years of experience, including 7–8 years in procurement with strong category expertise
• Prior management experience and relevant industry knowledge are advantageous
• Fluency in English is essential; additional languages are a plus

Core Competencies

• Strong influencing and communication skills with ability to drive stakeholder alignment
• Strategic thinking with strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities
• Proven experience in change management and working within matrix organizations
• Strong leadership, people development, and coalition-building capabilities
• Agile, adaptable, and innovative with a continuous learning mindset
• Experience working in cross-cultural environments with willingness to travel internationally

Technical & Functional Skills

• Solid experience in strategic sourcing and category management
• Experience with enterprise-wide procurement systems (e.g., SAP, Coupa, e-procurement tools)
• Strong capability in driving business alignment and executing sourcing strategies

Our DEI Commitment

At Suntory, we recognize that diverse knowledge, perspectives, and backgrounds contribute to our collective success. We are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where all individuals can bring their whole selves to work every day, regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, or any other protected characteristic.

Our recruitment and selection processes are designed to highlight what Suntory offers as an employer while allowing candidates to share their unique skills and experiences. We understand that career trajectories vary, and if you believe your experience/background can benefit our team, we encourage you to apply. We endeavor to make our interview process as inclusive as possible and offer reasonable accommodations as needed. Together, we can cultivate a workplace where everyone can thrive and propel our mission of Growing for Good.