Senior Procurement Specialist (Category Head – Corporate Services and Real Estate)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank, a member of the World Bank Group (WBG), is a global organization dedicated to addressing the world's most pressing development challenges. Established to foster economic development and reduce poverty, the World Bank operates in 145 countries with over 182 offices worldwide. The organization employs a diverse workforce that collaborates across cultures and disciplines to create scalable, data-driven solutions aimed at improving lives and generating better job opportunities. The World Bank's mission is to invest in people, strengthen markets, and deliver impactful solutions through partnerships with governments, private sectors, and development partners.

Job Overview:
The Senior Procurement Specialist (Category Head) for Corporate Services and Real Estate is a pivotal role within the World Bank's Corporate Procurement Department. This position is responsible for leading a team of over 10 Category Managers and Analysts, focusing on developing and implementing category strategies that align with the organization's objectives. The role requires a deep understanding of category management strategies, particularly in consulting-related services, and involves advising team members on sourcing initiatives, negotiations, and policy matters. The Category Head will oversee procurement activities across multiple categories, ensuring compliance with organizational policies while driving value creation and risk management. The position demands strong leadership skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Category Strategy and Leadership: Develop and implement category strategies that optimize costs, enhance supplier performance, and support organizational goals. Identify opportunities for value creation and process improvements, and lead strategic planning exercises.
• Team Leadership and People Management: Mentor and develop a high-performing team of Category Managers, establishing clear objectives and performance expectations. Foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement while ensuring efficient resource allocation.
• Strategic Sourcing Oversight: Provide guidance on complex sourcing initiatives, review procurement strategies, and support negotiations for major contracts. Ensure compliance with governance requirements and timely delivery of procurement outcomes.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build strong relationships with senior leaders and stakeholders, acting as a trusted advisor on procurement matters. Facilitate cross-functional collaboration and manage stakeholder expectations effectively.
• Risk Management: Predict and mitigate vendor-related risks to protect the organization's interests, ensuring sustainable supply chains.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience in Supply Management, Real Estate Management, Finance, Operations, or a related field. A minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in category management and sourcing complex procurements is required. Proven experience in Corporate and Real Estate sourcing is essential, including familiarity with facilities management, real estate services, and corporate services. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective relationships with senior leaders are crucial, along with analytical capabilities and problem-solving skills.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in a relevant field such as Supply Management, Real Estate Management, Finance, or Operations is required. Candidates with equivalent combinations of education and experience will also be considered. Continuous professional development in procurement and supply chain management is highly valued.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in category management and sourcing, particularly in complex procurement environments. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in leading teams and managing high-value procurement initiatives, with a proven track record of successful stakeholder engagement and relationship building.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with superior communication skills in verbal, written, and comprehension. Additional language skills are considered a plus but are not mandatory for this position.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as Open-Ended Staff (OPEN-OP) and is available for international recruitment. The duty station will be determined based on the best fit for the selected candidate, with potential locations including Washington, DC, Sofia, Bulgaria, and Chennai, India. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates.