"Category Manager"

PRIMARY DETAIL

Annual base salary from $142,838 - $150,860 per annum (HEW 9) + 17% superannuation and annual leave loading
Full-time, continuing role
Hybrid working arrangement based at Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde

Macquarie University is seeking a Category Manager to join our Strategic Procurement team within the 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'll 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.

Macquarie 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

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 (above).

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

Why Join Us?

Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation over 60 years ago, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today.

We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index, having recently earned a five-star rating in the QS World Rankings with the highest rating for employability. Look at the fabulous staff benefits on offer when you work at Macquarie University.

• Flexible, hybrid work arrangements
• 17% Superannuation
• Subsidised onsite parking options
• Extensive training and professional development programs
• Onsite childcare facilities to support working parents
• Onsite vacation care during school holidays
• Discounted health insurance
• Subsidised membership at our Sport & Aquatic Centre
• Access to an Employee Assistance Program for free and confidential support
• Convenient onsite GP, imaging, and physiotherapy clinics