Annual base salary from $142,838 - $150,860 per annum (HEW 9) + 17% superannuation and annual leave loadingFull‐time, continuing roleHybrid working arrangement based at Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde
Category Manager – Strategic Procurement team, Office of the Vice President, Finance & Resources. In this influential role you will partner with senior leaders across faculties and professional services to understand their needs, shape procurement strategies, and lead sourcing activities that deliver measurable cost savings, risk mitigation and operational excellence. You will work at the intersection of strategy and execution – from developing data‐driven category strategies to negotiating complex contracts and fostering long‐term supplier relationships.
About the Role
Reporting to the Senior Procurement Operations and Vendor Governance Manager, the Category Manager is responsible for the efficient acquisition, management and procurement of the University's spend. You will ensure compliance with the ProcureRight Framework while championing innovative practices and process improvements across the Macquarie University group.
Key responsibilities include:
* Partnering with Faculty Executive Directors and their teams to understand organisational needs and build tailored procurement strategies across all faculties
* Executing end‐to‐end procurement strategies, including sourcing activities, contract negotiations and stakeholder engagement through cross‐functional team leadership
* Collaborating with Strategic Sourcing Portfolio Managers to develop and execute complex procurement strategies that achieve cost savings, risk mitigation and value for money
* Managing strategic and operational procurement projects across all spend categories for the University Group, including related entities
* Providing expert advice to stakeholders on sourcing methods, commercial and contracting options to encourage innovative practices and support optimal procurement solutions
* Negotiating complex contracts and managing supplier relationships to ensure optimal procurement outcomes
* Identifying, scoping and executing opportunities for policy and process improvement, automation and transformation
About Us
Strategic Procurement operates within the University's Finance and Shared Services division and is responsible for developing and managing procurement policies, frameworks and activities that align with Macquarie University's strategic objectives. The university's procurement approach encompasses fair competition, probity and long‐term strategic partnerships that enhance research, education and campus life.
About You
You are a commercially astute procurement professional with a proven track record of developing and delivering complex, data‐driven procurement strategies across multiple categories. You bring strong stakeholder engagement skills, a collaborative mindset and the confidence to influence senior leaders and challenge the status quo to achieve outstanding outcomes.
Selection Criteria
* Bachelor's degree or equivalent, and/or extensive proven experience in procurement across multiple categories
* Extensive experience in developing data‐driven and complex procurement strategies, including demand management strategies to achieve revenue and expense reduction goals
* Expert knowledge of commercial drivers, risk mitigation strategies and complex contract negotiations
* Expert‐level analytical and conceptual skills with the ability to deliver innovative solutions to resolve complex problems
* Demonstrated capability to influence stakeholders and facilitate change, including a willingness to think creatively and challenge established practices
* Expert knowledge of process continual improvement and transformation, with a sound understanding of the local and global market context within which the University operates
Benefits
* Flexible, hybrid work arrangements
* 17% Superannuation
* Subsidised onsite parking options
* Extensive training and professional development programmes
* Onsite childcare facilities to support working parents
* Discounted health insurance
* Subsidised membership at the Sport & Aquatic Centre
* Access to an Employee Assistance Programme for free and confidential support
* Convenient onsite GP, imaging and physiotherapy clinics
How to Apply
To be considered, please apply online with your CV and a cover letter outlining how your experience aligns with the selection criteria. Applications close 1 April 2026. We reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date. For enquiries, or a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Dominic Dommersen at dominic.dommersen@mq.edu.au.
Pre‐Employment Checks
Macquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in pre‐employment checks relevant to the role. Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role‐required checks to a satisfactory standard.
A Place Where You Belong
At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We foster a community where different backgrounds, identities and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework.
Flexible Work
At Macquarie, we believe providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done supports employees to manage personal commitments while optimising performance and contributions to the University. To learn more about our culture and hiring process, visit our Jobs at Macquarie page.
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