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Expertise

Our specialist consultants are experts across a range of disciplines, connecting you with the right talent for your permanent, temporary, contract, or interim jobs. Share your requirements and our experts will get in touch.

Submit a vacancy

Exclusive Recruitment Partners

Explore the opportunities from a range of organisations that exclusively partner with Robert Walters for their hiring needs.

Learn more
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Strategic Category Manager

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We are seeking Strategic Category Managers to join a Government Infrastructure team across Auckland or Hamilton. You will make a meaningful impact by contributing to the delivery of essential services that support communities nationwide. You will be part of a committed team dedicated to improving outcomes in the health sector, if you are passionate about making a difference and enjoy working collaboratively within a supportive network, this position will be a great fit.

What you'll do:

As a Strategic Category Manager, you will play a pivotal role in shaping procurement strategies that underpin critical infrastructure projects. Your day-to-day responsibilities will involve collaborating with internal teams and external suppliers to deliver high-quality outcomes across multiple categories. You will be instrumental in supporting construction projects by leveraging your expertise in delivery processes while ensuring stakeholder needs are met through effective relationship management.

  • Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to manage procurement activities across various categories including Clinical, Infrastructure, Fleet, and more.
  • Develop and nurture strong supplier relationships to ensure optimal service delivery and value for money throughout all stages of procurement.
  • Lead end-to-end category management processes, from strategic planning through to contract negotiation and implementation.
  • Support construction and delivery projects by applying your understanding of infrastructure requirements within the health sector.
  • Engage with stakeholders at all levels to understand their needs and align procurement strategies accordingly.
  • Contribute to the development of best practice procurement frameworks that promote transparency, efficiency, and inclusivity.
  • Monitor market trends and analyse data to inform category strategies that drive continuous improvement.
  • Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and policies while maintaining ethical standards in all procurement activities.

What you bring:

The ideal candidate for the Strategic Category Manager role brings proven experience navigating complex procurement landscapes across infrastructure sector. Your background may include work within government agencies managing full-scope procurement activities or experience as an FMCG Category Manager equipped with adaptable skills – Project management and procurement expertise from private sector environments will further strengthen your application.

  • Demonstrated experience managing procurement activities across diverse categories such as Clinical, Infrastructure, or Fleet within either public or private sectors.
  • Proven ability to build dependable relationships with suppliers and stakeholders through considerate communication and empathetic engagement.
  • Background in government agencies (MOE, NZTA, Defence) is highly valued; familiarity with full scope procurement processes beyond RFPs is essential.
  • Experience as an FMCG Category Manager is welcome provided you possess well-rounded skills adaptable to complex environments.
  • Project management capabilities gained from private sector roles are advantageous alongside strong supplier relationship management abilities.
  • Understanding of construction delivery processes relevant to infrastructure projects within large organisations.

Join a knowledgeable and dependable team focused on delivering positive change within the health sector, where your expertise will directly contribute to community well-being.

What's next:

If you are ready to contribute your expertise in category management while enjoying supportive leadership and flexible working opportunities, this is your chance to make a lasting impact – please apply via the link.

Robert Walters endeavours to review all applications in a maximum of five working days. If you have not received correspondence in this timeframe please do not hesitate to contact Joe Walding-Karaitiana on +64 9 374 7351.

Contract Type: Perm

Specialism: Procurement & Supply Chain

Focus: Commercial / Procurement

Industry: Purchasing and Procurement

Salary: Negotiable

Workplace Type: Hybrid

Experience Level: Senior Management

Location: Auckland CBD

Job Reference: PX5868-9C5D9D42

Date posted: 19 May 2026

Consultant: Joe Walding-Karaitiana

Phone number: +64 9 374 7351

joe.walding-karaitiana@robertwalters.co.nz

Joe Walding-Karaitiana

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