Title:  Category Manager

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Immediate Superior: Procurement Hub Manager 
Location: Stellenbosch
Function: Supply Chain
Sub Function: Procurement
Type of Contract: Permanent
Reference Number: 149183 
Closing Date: 12/01/2026

Purpose of the Job:

To lead, plan, and execute the global, regional and local category strategy for the Procurement Excellence priorities & programs. The Category Manager acts as a strategic sourcing business partner to internal OpCo stakeholders and serves as the interface to Heineken Global and local Procurement teams. The role ensures supply continuity, cost competitiveness, and alignment with Heineken’s sustainability ambitions by translating global procurement strategy into actionable regional and local category plans/initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Translate the company’s procurement strategy into actionable category plans, including Procurement Excellence priorities & programs.
• Lead the development and execution of local, regional and global categories in alignment with Heineken Global, Regional and local OpCo Procurement.
• Participate actively in the global category community to share insights and align strategic goals.
• Negotiate contracts and commercial terms to maximize value and ensure continuity of supply.
• Analyze external markets and demand patterns to identify risks and opportunities.
• Implement sourcing strategies and tender processes that drive continuous improvement.

• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, including Source-to-Contract and Source-to-Pay processes.

• Support reporting and performance tracking through relevant HGP tool and platforms

Job Requirements: Education and Experience

• University level / master’s degree preferred
• 7+ years of experience.
• A minimum of 5 years with progressive responsibility in purchasing, project management, contract and vendor negotiations in an FMCG environment.
• Solid knowledge of Category Management, marketing and sales principles.
• Understanding of data analysis and forecasting methods.
• Proficiency in MS Office.
• An analytical mind with a strategic ability.
• Excellent communication and people skills.

The Company’s approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply. Heineken Beverages (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd) is committed to an organisational culture that recognises, appreciates and values inclusion and diversity. You must be fully eligible to live and work in South Africa to apply.