Manage a high-impact, high value category and drive critical strategic projects for Subway franchisees across the Asia Pacific region.
12th March, 2026
What's the opportunity
Manage some of the most complex and "high-risk" categories within the Subway network. As the Category Manager, you safeguard the supply of essential items, from fresh produce and pickles to wraps and bread toppings, across Australia and New Zealand. You step into a pivotal position responsible for major expenditure, ensuring operational stability, driving savings while improving relationships with suppliers. If you thrive in a complex ecosystem where you sit at the intersection of global strategy and local execution, this is the challenge for you.
What you'll do
* Lead Strategic Sourcing: Identify cost‐saving opportunities and lead the sourcing and qualification process for local suppliers.
* Safeguard Continuity: Maintain supply for high‐risk categories (produce, avocado, olives, etc.) to prevent network instability or cost escalation.
* Drive Profitability: Negotiate best‐value pricing with suppliers to directly improve franchise owner profitability.
* Supplier Governance: Manage a complex network of 24+ suppliers and distributors, conducting quarterly business reviews focused on performance, risk, and CSR.
* Manage Ambiguity: Navigate the volatility of perishable goods and evolving master data as the organisation continues its transition.
* Cross‐Functional Collaboration: Contribute to global and regional RFPs and work closely with marketing and growth teams on product trials and stock availability.
What you'll bring to the role
* Industry Expertise: Essential experience in QSR, the food industry or FMCG, specifically dealing with fresh produce and/or perishables.
* Procurement Mastery: Proven strategic and operational procurement experience with a solid grasp of category management.
* Analytical Mindset: Highly analytical with a preference for an MBA or Master's in supply chain (not essential).
* Proactive Communication: Ability to over‐communicate with all stakeholders, including franchisees and Subway Head Office, to manage expectations and resolve issues.
* Flexibility: Comfort with roughly 15‐20% domestic and New Zealand travel to visit suppliers and regional hubs.
* Tech Savvy: Experience with ERP/CRM systems and advanced Excel skills.
Benefits of working for IPC International
* Flexible work hours – requirement to work from the office 5 days per fortnight, with Wednesdays and Tuesdays encouraged as anchor/team days.
* Generous leave – receive an additional 5 days, 2 wellness days, half a Friday per quarter and an anniversary day off.
* Development opportunities – access to development after probation to upskill in a career or personal hobby.
* Social events – participate in and celebrate numerous company and team social events.
* EAP.
About IPC International
IPC International are more than a supply chain partner – they are a trusted team with over 20 years of experience supporting Subway franchisees and helping them to drive growth across complex markets. With a global network of suppliers and distributors and a full suite of end-to-end services, they keep supply chains moving so their partners can thrive. Joining IPC means being part of a truly global organisation. www.ipcinternational.com
For candidates who progress through our screening process, we are obliged to ensure that all candidates have the necessary legal right to work in Australia. We will require you to provide evidence prior to an interview.
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