IT & Consultancy Category Manager - 1 year FTC

Who We Are

Suntory is a fast moving, agile and entrepreneurial business that is home to some of the nations most loved brands. The Suntory Group is one of the largest soft drinks companies and among the world’s leading consumer products companies. We offer a uniquely diverse portfolio of beverages enjoyed by millions across the globe

About your role

This role’s responsibility is to develop, communicate and drive overall implementation of Procurement vision, objectives and strategy for Category related to IT & Digital for SBFE. Specifically, to drive Category transformation of Suntory Procurement into a value-added business partner at regional level. Successful management of supplier relationship to support SBFE growth and maximized value delivery to SBFE markets. 

What You'll Do

Contribute to the overall Category and Procurement strategy by building and leading the assigned Category Strategy, including strategic direction, governance, resources, and tools aligned with business goals. Proactively engage internal and external stakeholders to deliver cost, quality, risk mitigation, innovation, sustainability, and value creation.

Develop and implement sourcing strategies at regional, and local levels. Recommend and approve sourcing and supplier selections within defined thresholds. Manage senior regional and local stakeholders to influence decisions and ensure project delivery.

Drive best‑in‑class category management practices, including standard processes, benchmarks, and tools

Accountable for financial targets, including cost and value programs, savings validation, and cost improvement initiatives. Develop business cases to support decision-making and transformations. Own the AOP cycle, budgeting with Finance, and validation of savings KPIs.

Define, monitor, and report category KPIs (including savings and NPS). Manage reporting and communications with Global Procurement leadership using appropriate tools and governance.

Own relationships with key strategic suppliers. Establish SRM governance, supplier evaluation, and compliance standards. Develop supplier development strategies, long-term partnerships, and SLA performance management.

Map and influence key stakeholders to identify business needs and drive procurement strategy execution. Communicate procurement vision, support change management, and strengthen business partnering.

Drive market intelligence, innovation, and continuous improvement by scouting industry trends, sustainability initiatives, and new models with suppliers. Lead risk assessments and enforce business continuity plans as required.

Integrate ESG into the category strategy, driving sustainability initiatives and ensuring alignment with ESG procurement guidelines.

What's in it for you

Joining Suntory isn’t just about taking on a role, it’s about embarking on a career journey. You have the opportunity to work with talented, inspiring and authentic leaders and have the freedom to dream big and go for it (Yatte Minahare). At Suntory you’ll find a supportive work environment that values work life balance and that will help you realise your full potential and grow for good. Our People and Culture team are a team that genuinely care about creating a great experience for our employees and we would love you to be part of it.

What You need to be successful

University degree level, technical or economical. Procurement specialization is a plus

Solid experiences in Procurement

Strong knowledge of the category

Management skill & knowledge of the relevant industry sector is a plus

Fluent in English

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.