Category Manager

About the Role Are you ready to play a key role in supporting procurement solutions across Queensland’s 77 councils and beyond? Local Buy is seeking a proactive Category Manager to lead the development, optimisation, and management of procurement arrangements, and the aggregated contracts in the Energy and Waste portfolio. As a member of our Procurement Team, you will: Drive category performance and adoption across Queensland, Northern Territory, and other participating regions. Act as a subject matter expert for Energy and Waste. Ensure arrangements meet evolving stakeholder needs and align with Local Buy’s strategic goals and regulatory requirements. Key Responsibilities Manage the Energy category, including strategy, stakeholder engagement, administration, and support. This includes: - Strong energy data analysis capability. - High proficiency in Queensland energy markets (contestable and non-contestable). - Exceptional stakeholder engagement and being a trusted advisor, including lead stakeholder groups for the category to support aggregated procurement outcomes. - Deliver energy procurement (pre‑qualified arrangements, large/small sites, street lighting), tariff analysis, solar feasibility assessments, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and related needs. - Undertake energy procurement management activities to develop new aggregated contracts in collaboration with the sector, identifying participants and driving business development. Manage the Waste category, including strategy, administration, and support. - Lead the development and execution of category and arrangement plans. - Oversee end‑to‑end portfolio lifecycles, including market analysis, tender processes, evaluations, contract management, and supplier performance. - Analyse spend, market trends, and emerging technologies to inform strategy. - Build and maintain strong relationships with buyers, suppliers, and stakeholders. - Provide expert advice to councils, buying organisations, and internal teams. - Promote arrangements through presentations, workshops, and industry events. - Respond to day‑to‑day enquiries promptly and professionally. Skills & Experience Energy - Minimum 5 years’ experience in energy category management, markets, and energy systems. - Knowledge and application of National Energy Retail Rules (NERR), Electricity Act 1994, Electricity Regulation 2006, and other relevant legislation governing Queensland energy markets. - Ability to drive business development through energy procurement strategies. - Expertise in energy procurement strategies (large/small sites, street lighting). - Experience with PPAs, tariff analysis, power market modelling, and financial modelling. Waste - Minimum 3 years’ experience in waste category management or a closely related field. General - Expertise in end‑to‑end source‑to‑contract procurement processes. - Strong stakeholder engagement, negotiation, and presentation skills. - Experience with Queensland local government highly regarded. - Analytical, organised, and able to manage multiple priorities independently. - Proficiency in Microsoft Office, SharePoint, and CRM systems. - Team‑oriented, proactive, and committed to delivering results. Why Join Local Buy? - Local Buy offers a unique opportunity to influence public procurement at scale. - You’ll join a collaborative, experienced team committed to innovation, efficiency, and delivering value to Queensland communities. - We offer a flexible and supportive work environment. - Opportunities for professional growth. - A chance to make a tangible impact across the state. - Additional 3% employer superannuation where you co‑contribute 6% (total of up to 21%) for permanent staff. - Long Service Leave after seven years. - Four weeks of annual leave plus up to 2 “Special Bonus Leave Days” per year during annual close down for permanent staff. - Access to our corporate health plan with HCF, and up to $500 rebate per hospital admission. - Novated Vehicle Leasing for permanent staff. - Membership to the Paraplegic Benefit Fund. - Potential for an employee small bonus of up to $800 per year – conditions apply. - Wellness support including Telus Health digital wellbeing platform and Employee Assistance Program. - Professional development and internal training programs. - Flexible working arrangements. Ready to Make a Difference? Join us in shaping the future of procurement in Queensland. Apply now and be part of a team that’s driving innovation and delivering real impact. For a confidential discussion regarding the role, please contact Glen Duff on 0406 320 422. #J-18808-Ljbffr