Senior Procurement Specialist (Category Head – Corporate Services and Real Estate)

World Bank Group•Washington, DC

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The World Bank Group (WBG) is seeking a Senior Procurement Specialist to serve as the Category Head for Corporate Services and Real Estate. This role is crucial for managing procurement activities that support the WBG's mission of ending extreme poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. The Corporate Procurement Department operates globally, overseeing sourcing strategies, selection, and contract execution for over 130 offices. The department is guided by principles of transparency, fairness, competition, and best value, focusing on commerciality, risk management, and sustainability. The categories of spend include Corporate Services and Real Estate, Human Resources and Professional Services, Technology, and Consulting Services. The selected candidate will be based in Washington, DC, Sofia, Bulgaria, or Chennai, India, with the duty station determined by organizational needs. The position reports to the Global Head Sourcing and Supplier Manager and involves leading a team of Category Managers and Analysts.

Requirements

Master's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience in Supply Management, Real Estate Management, Finance, Operations, or a related field.
Minimum 8 years of relevant experience in category management and sourcing complex procurements.
Proven experience in category management in Corporate and Real Estate sourcing. The category includes but is not limited to Facilities management, Real estate services, Construction and fit-out works, Travel and Events – corporate travel, hotel services, event management, conference support. Security Services, and other corporate services – mailroom, printing, records management, office supplies, furniture, security services, vehicles and logistics, etc.
Demonstrated experience in leading a high-performing team along with proven ability to have motivated category managers and procurement professionals.
Proven ability to build effective relationships with senior business leaders and stakeholders in the organization acting as a trusted advisor on sourcing and commercial matters.
Strong interpersonal and analytical capabilities and logical problem-solving skills, to resolve conflicts and influence decisions without direct authority.
Project Management skills with extensive experience in managing multiple related projects to ensure the overall program is aligned and directly supports the achievement of strategic objectives.
Ability to deal sensitively in a multicultural environment and build effective working relationships with clients, colleagues, and other stakeholders.
Superior communication skills in English (verbal, written, and comprehension), and ability to resolve interpersonal conflict.
Ability to function effectively in multi-disciplinary teams within a matrix management environment, as well as an individual contributor.
Ability to analyze and compare various sources of data, information and digital content and storytelling.
Embracement of various digital tools and advocate for the use of emerging technologies in work program delivery.

Responsibilities

Develop and oversee the implementation of category strategies across assigned spend categories.
Identify opportunities for cost optimization, value creation, demand management, and process improvement.
Drive a category management approach that focuses on total cost of ownership, supplier innovation, and long-term value.
Lead periodic category reviews and strategic planning exercises.
Lead, mentor, and develop a team of Category Managers and procurement professionals.
Establish clear objectives, priorities, and performance expectations for team members.
Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, continuous improvement, and customer service.
Support staff development through coaching, training, and succession planning.
Monitor workload distribution and ensure efficient allocation of resources across categories and projects.
Provide oversight and guidance on complex, high-value, and strategic sourcing initiatives.
Review and approve sourcing strategies, procurement approaches, solicitation documents, and evaluation methodologies.
Ensure procurement activities are conducted in accordance with organizational policies and governance requirements.
Support negotiations for major contracts and strategic supplier agreements.
Ensure timely delivery of procurement outcomes while maintaining quality and compliance standards.
Build strong relationships with senior business leaders and key stakeholders.
Act as a trusted advisor on procurement, sourcing, and category management matters.
Ensure procurement strategies are aligned with operational and strategic business requirements.
Facilitate cross-functional collaboration to support procurement planning and execution.
Manage stakeholder expectations and resolve escalated procurement issues.