Position Overview

The Procurement Category Specialist will develop and advance sourcing and supplier management strategies that support key business objectives and priorities and result in significant cost savings and process improvements within a focused category of expenditure.

The Procurement Category Specialist will be responsible for identifying opportunities for the University within the assigned category; managing contract and supplier performance to achieve high service levels; building effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders and collating and analysing data to identify current behavior practices and spend patterns in the category.

Division of Services and Resources

The Division of Services and Resources comprises a number of Directorates and Offices whose activities foster and promote innovation and best practice in the delivery of its services and provide the frameworks and support to assist the Academy and Service Divisions achieve their goals and objectives.

The Division is responsible for overall strategy in relation to: planning, performance and budgeting framework; strategic procurement; financial and human resources; ICT services; business intelligence and statistical reporting; strategic commercial activities, including in relation to the Discovery Rise project and Retail outlets; quality enhancement and policy framework; capital infrastructure planning and maintenance and delivery of capital projects for ICT and the Estate; health and safety management and compliance; provision of campus services including cleaning, grounds maintenance, security and student accommodation.

The Division has a strong customer service ethic and continuous improvement culture. We are receptive to new ideas and ways in which we can enhance our delivery of services for the University.

Financial and Business Services

The Financial and Business Services Directorate is responsible for a diverse range of the University’s financial functions and business services, including: strategic financial and budgeting advice; business case development and review; management accounting; Treasury Management; budgeting; procurement; accounts payable; corporate credit cards; accounts receivable; cashiering/banking; taxation; assets; insurance; financial systems management; and other statutory compliance obligations and responsibilities. We are receptive to new ideas and suggestions for ways in which we can enhance our delivery of services to the University.

Organisational Charts

James Cook University

Division of Services and Resources

Financial and Business Services

Directorate

Principal Accountabilities

1. Contribute to the sourcing and negotiation of products and/or services within the category to ensure commercial and non-commercial benefits and outcomes to the University are maximised.
2. Ensure stakeholders and the wider University community are consulted as to their procurement requirements in order to foster and encourage collaboration and achieve high service levels.
3. Identify and implement continuous cost and performance improvement strategies by establishing a sound and collaborative working relationship with suppliers and resolving any supplier performance issues to ensure customer satisfaction.
4. Identify and implement changes required to enhance procurement arrangements and to deliver substantial cost savings and benefits to the University.
5. Educate the University community on demand and usage of supplier services and products in order to adopt Lean procurement therefore producing additional savings and eliminating wastage.
6. Contribute to the implementation and review of the University’s procurement policies, procedures and processes, and establish guidelines for staff dealing with University suppliers which are current, clear, concise and helpful.
7. Implement an effective supplier performance measurement, monitoring and reporting framework (including scorecards and KPIs) in order for the University to assess organisational benefits gained from suppliers, supplier quality, cost performance, internal customer satisfaction and opportunities for improved performance outcomes.
8. Maintain spend and consumption data across the category by developing and maintaining supplier intelligence which will inform strategy development and decision making and track realisation of procurement targets.
9. Support the University's commitment to the principles of reconciliation, which exemplify respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage and the valuing of justice and equity for all Australians.
10. Demonstrate a commitment to the University values and Divisional attributes.
11. Support the principles of the TropEco program and engage in commitment to JCU sustainability goals and objectives.

Descriptors

There are generic responsibilities that apply to all James Cook University staff. Your specific level descriptor can be found at:

Professional and Technical

Level 7

Generic Accountabilities

There are generic responsibilities that apply to all James Cook University staff.

1. The Procurement Category Specialist is required to observe the lawful and reasonable directions, policies and decisions of the University Council, understand and comply with the Enterprise Agreement, the Statutes and Rules of the University, the policies and decisions of the University Council and other appropriate University authorities, as in force from time to time.
2. The Procurement Category Specialist is required to demonstrate a personal commitment to ensure personal safety and the safety of others and contribute to the continuous improvement of our WHS performance. This includes the effective implementation and compliance with James Cook University WHS policies, procedures and safe systems of work, together with all relevant legislation, duties and obligations. Contribute to the continuous improvement of our WHS performance.
3. The Procurement Category Specialist is required to exercise proper discretion in all matters affecting the well-being of the University which involve public writing or speaking in accordance with the University’s Code of Conduct.

Selection Criteria

Selection and appointments will be assessed against selection criteria.

Essential

1. Degree qualification with at least 4 years subsequent relevant experience in category management related field or an equivalent combination of experience and/or education and/or training.
2. Demonstrated experience in managing new and on-going supplier relationships.
3. Proven ability to collate and analyse complex data to provide compelling arguments for change both internally and with suppliers.
4. Strong interpersonal and negotiating skills to motivate, coach and influence others to achieve business objectives.
5. Experience in improving business processes, streamlining procedures and responding effectively to change.
6. Proven experience in communicating in a clear and efficient manner with the ability to interpret and explain technical information in a non-technical manner.

Desirable

1. Professional procurement qualification of a recognised procurement body in Australia (i.e. CIPSA, AAPCM, IPAA), specifically related to public sector procurement.
2. Experience working in a University or public sector environment.