Strategic Sourcing Manager

About the role

This position focuses on managing commercial strategies and procurement activities for indirect spend categories. You will work within the Marketing and Business Services team to refine sourcing processes and drive high-value outcomes during a period of organizational growth.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Manage commercial strategy and execution for categories including professional services, consulting, staffing, BPO, payment gateways, workplace facilities, insurance, and system integration.
• Execute operational tasks and process improvements during the first 6 to 12 months, transitioning toward long-term strategic category management as the ZIP AI agent takes on routine work.
• Conduct complex negotiations with external vendors, such as management consultancies and outsourcing firms.
• Collaborate with internal business stakeholders to provide commercial guidance and influence supplier selection.
• Develop and maintain category strategies that align with business objectives.
• Oversee contract renewals, spend visibility, and pipeline management.
• Analyze data to identify cost savings, supplier consolidation, and improved terms.
• Integrate market benchmarks into internal decision-making processes.
• Work with Legal, Finance, and Risk departments to maintain governance and speed.

Requirements

• Minimum 7 years of experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, or related commercial fields.
• Proven ability to manage indirect spend categories like professional services, BPO, contingent labor, or marketing.
• Experience building procurement processes, playbooks, or operational frameworks from the ground up.
• Demonstrated success in high-value negotiations and managing supplier relationships.
• Ability to balance high-level strategy with hands-on execution.
• Strong analytical skills to assess portfolios and prioritize sourcing initiatives.
• Experience building relationships and influencing stakeholders without formal authority.
• Capacity to work independently and create structure in ambiguous environments.

Nice to have

• Experience working within high-growth technology companies, consulting firms, or professional services environments.

Skills & tools

• Strategic sourcing
• Category management
• Contract negotiation
• Data-led commercial analysis
• Stakeholder management
• ZIP AI agent (for operational tasks)

Practical notes

• Benefits include equity packages, inclusive parental leave, an annual Vibe and Thrive allowance, and flexible leave options.
• The role is based in Sydney and utilizes a hybrid work model.
• Interviews are conducted virtually.
• Applicants should include their pronouns and any requirements for reasonable adjustments during the interview process.