Category Manager - Professional Services

Job Description: Job Title: Category Manager - Professional Services Location: Remote Home Office - North America Reports to: Head of Procurement Role Summary The Category Manager for Professional Services will report to the Head of Procurement. The role will have key responsibility for strategic sourcing, vendor management, and contract negotiations across all talent-related categories at JD Power. These categories include consultants, contract labor, staff augmentation resources, and professional services engagements across all business functions and geographies. This role involves identifying and prioritizing organizational needs, understanding the talent and services market, developing and executing sourcing strategies, leading competitive procurement processes, and negotiating favorable commercial terms. The successful candidate will work closely with business leaders, the Legal and Finance teams, and external supplier partners to ensure JD Power retains top-tier services while optimizing costs and managing risk. Excellence in communication, relationship management, and strategic thinking are essential to success in this position. What You Will Do Develop and execute comprehensive sourcing and category management strategies for consultants, contract labor, staff augmentation, professional services, and related category spend across the organization Build and maintain strategic relationships with key suppliers and staffing partners to understand capabilities, market rates, and emerging talent trends Partner with business stakeholders across all departments to understand talent needs, skill requirements, project timelines, and budget constraints Conduct market research and benchmarking to establish baselines, identify best practices, and stay informed of industry trends in talent sourcing and professional services Lead procurement activities including RFx processes, vendor selection, rate negotiations, and contract finalization Manage contract negotiations with v