Category Specialist II

L.A. Care Health Plan•Los Angeles, CA

About The Position

Established in 1997, L.A. Care Health Plan is an independent public agency created by the state of California to provide health coverage to low-income Los Angeles County residents. We are the nation’s largest publicly operated health plan. Serving more than 2 million members, we make sure our members get the right care at the right place at the right time. Mission: L.A. Care’s mission is to provide access to quality health care for Los Angeles County's vulnerable and low-income communities and residents and to support the safety net required to achieve that purpose. Job SummaryThe Category Specialist II supports the execution of L.A. Care’s category management strategies by conducting spend analysis, preparing reports, and assisting in sourcing events across assigned categories. This position partners with stakeholders to track savings, review contracts and invoices for compliance, and maintain accurate vendor and spend data within procurement systems. The Specialist ensures policy compliance and provides the foundational insights needed for sourcing execution and category strategy.

Requirements

Associate's Degree in Business or Related Field
In lieu of degree, equivalent education and/or experience may be considered.
At least 2 years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, purchasing or contract management, analyzing data in a financial and legal context.
Ariba or similar experience with strong understanding of master data management.
Experience utilizing leading-edge analytics and research tools and technologies.
Familiar with procurement and sourcing concepts, practices, systems and procedures.
Quick and reliable learner with extreme attention to detail.
Highly organized multi-tasker with ability to independently spot issues and work through problems with minimal to no assistance.
Excellent verbal, written communication, analytical, organizational and presentation skills.
Familiarity with healthcare and legal terminology and methodology.
Ability to prepare amendments, contracts and basic legal documents from templates.
Proficient in Microsoft PowerPoint, Excel and Office.
Strong procurement skills to support vendor relationship management.

Nice To Haves

Experience in managing initial and ongoing Vendor Risk elements, including cyber.
Experience negotiating and managing supplier agreements for a wide variety of goods and services.

Responsibilities

Support category management activities by conducting spend analysis, supplier research, and market benchmarking to identify savings opportunities and rationalize vendors. (25%)
Develop and maintain detailed reports on spend and vendor performance, contract expirations, and cost savings by using source-to-pay systems and advanced Excel/Business Intelligence (BI) tools. (15%)
Assist in sourcing execution by preparing Request for x (RFx) documentation, consolidating supplier responses, conducting cost/price comparisons, and supporting contract negotiations. (20%)
Partner with internal stakeholders to collect requirements, track supplier performance, and ensure accurate application of purchase orders, invoices, and contracts. (10%)
Ensure compliance with procurement policies and procedures by supporting contract review, validation of supplier terms, and accurate application of Accounts Payable (A/P) documentation. (5%)
Contribute to strategic initiatives including vendor rationalization projects, supplier onboarding, and process automation within source-to-pay platforms. (10%)
Provide project and administrative support for sourcing events, supplier scorecards, and quarterly business reviews. (5%)
Perform other duties as assigned, including supporting special projects and process improvement initiatives. (10%)