The Category Specialist is responsible for leading and implementing associated category strategies and plans that support the delivery of best practice category management outcomes. The role is also responsible for project managing the implementation of planned procurement initiatives utilising relevant value creation levers (e.g., reduce scope, standardise products, strategic sourcing, aggregation of demand etc.), putting in place transparent benefits realisation reporting and for ensuring that robust contractual arrangements are executed that lock in the procured value. This role is also responsible for managing the contractual performance of the Supplier to ensure strategic long term operational and tactical relationships and relevant performance management issues by mitigating any supply and distribution problems with appropriate stakeholders.

To undertake the role, the incumbent will develop and maintain a depth of knowledge of relevant supplier markets, capabilities and technology and is responsible for negotiating and facilitating implementation of long-term agreements and/or partnerships between suppliers and customers. The Category Specialist will also ensure that category strategies and associated procurement activities are compliant with agreed processes and broader Queensland Health governance requirements.

About System Procurement:

System Procurement is responsible for leading the category management, contracting and end to end supply of all medical and non-medical goods and services (excluding capital infrastructure and ICT) on behalf of the Department of Health and Hospital and Health Services.

Advisory & Continuous Improvement (ACI) supports system wide procurement responsibilities and gives confidence and integrity to the overall procurement function of CSD.  The ACI adopts a collaborative and progressive approach to engagement to drive innovation in procurement practice raising stakeholders' awareness of current trends and thinking.

Your Key Responsibilties:

• Drive the development and implementation of category plans and initiatives, based on agreed customer needs and priorities that maximise the value secured from each dollar spent.
• Develop category, product and supplier knowledge databases to inform sub-category strategies. Ensure adequate analysis of customer requirements is undertaken to underpin category strategies and to support effective supplier negotiations.
• Share knowledge and best practice gained within the region. Manage peer relationships to drive maximum state-wide benefit from initiatives.
• Project manage the implementation of planned procurement initiatives, utilising relevant value creation levers such as reduction in scope or standardisation of products.
• Ensure standard procurement processes that comply with Queensland Health governance requirements are adhered to, whilst also identifying any opportunities to improve those processes.
• Provide additional support as necessary to the Category Director, Category Manager and Service Delivery Account Managers to support the delivery of overall state-wide and regional strategies and plans.
• Please see attached Role Description for further information.