Category Manager (AD.07.4) at University of the Witwatersrand

Job Purpose:

• The Category Manager is responsible for developing and executing procurement and supply chain strategies for designated commodities and services. The role supports the University’s shift toward a more strategic procurement model by driving value-for-money, ensuring governance and compliance, facilitating efficient tender processes, and achieving measurable procurement savings.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage end-to-end tender processes from initiation to contract award.
• Ensure procurement practices are efficient, effective, and compliant with University policies and relevant legislation.
• Conduct strategic sourcing and manage related commodities, with a strong focus on ICT and Facilities Management.
• Analyse category spend, develop category strategies, promote sustainable procurement, and apply total cost of ownership principles to realise savings.
• Provide procurement advisory services to internal stakeholders and project owners.
• Lead supplier management and negotiations to ensure optimal service levels and value.
• Handle stakeholder queries professionally to minimise risk and ensure transparent procurement practices.
• Stay abreast of market trends, pricing movements, and procurement developments; maintain a knowledge database.
• Ensure adherence to best practice, good governance, risk management, and audit requirements.
• Serve as a backup to the Operations Manager: Procurement and Head of Procurement when required.

Brief Description        
Minimum Requirements:

• Matric plus a relevant Purchasing, Logistics, Supply Chain or equivalent qualification (National Diploma/ BCom/ MCIPS/ Postgraduate qualification).
• 3–5 years’ experience managing and facilitating tender processes, including compilation, evaluation, and contract conclusion.
• At least 5 years’ experience in purchasing and/or commodity management.
• Exposure to ICT and Facilities Management procurement is preferable.
• Project or process management experience is advantageous.

Attributes & Competencies:

• Strong knowledge, understanding and experience of procurement, tender processes, strategic sourcing, and supplier management.
• Experience with managing tender processes from end to end
• Understanding of legislation such as PPPFA, BBBEE, Competition Act, and CIDB Act is advantageous.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, administrative and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Strong organisational, analytical, process and project management abilities.
• Excellent attention to detail, ethical conduct and mindset, and service excellence.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively; strong administrative and record-keeping skills.
• Familiarity with ERP procurement modules and Strong MS Word and Excel skills.
• Critical thinking mindset.
• Can work independently with minimum supervision and can work as part of a team when required        

Closing Date: 19 December 2025