Global Category Leader – Specialty Products

About the role

Veolia Water Tech is seeking a Global Category Leader – Specialty Products to shape procurement strategy for a $50 million spend portfolio across its Water, Microelectronics, and Industrial business lines. The role is based in Europe and can be performed remotely or in a hybrid mode.

Key responsibilities

• Define and implement a global category roadmap for water‑specific categories such as membranes, ion‑exchange resins and UV systems, as well as niche sub‑categories like yarn, braids and specialty polymers.
• Develop and maintain a strategic supplier panel aligned with category goals.
• Design contracting strategies and lead negotiations to secure optimal commercial terms.
• Drive annual savings, operational efficiency, sustainability improvements and cash optimisation.
• Collaborate with Procurement Project and Product Leaders, Regional Category Leaders, Technology and Supply Chain teams to ensure alignment with organisational objectives.
• Balance global standardisation with regional requirements while mitigating supply‑chain risks.

Required profile

• Proven experience in global category management or strategic procurement, preferably with a spend of similar magnitude.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking abilities.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills across multiple regions and business units.
• Ability to influence decisions and drive continuous improvement.

Required skills