Procurement Category Manager

LA28 is the independent, non-profit, privately funded organizing committee for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. We are on a singular mission to create an Olympic and Paralympic Games that celebrate all that this city and country have to offer, delivering an unparalleled experience for athletes, fans, partners and our community. The 2028 Games mark the return of the Summer Games to the U.S. for the first time in 32 years and Los Angeles’ third time hosting an Olympic Games and first time welcoming the Paralympic Games. This presents the unique and exciting opportunity to celebrate our legacy with the Games and push the Olympic and Paralympic Movements forward, writing a new chapter of Games history in Los Angeles. Putting on an Olympic and Paralympic Games is a team sport. To build a Games unlike any the world has seen before, we need the best team in place–a team full of perspectives, experiences and expertise. We are guided by the following set of values and behaviors–optimism, integrity, excellence, inclusion, co-creation and boldness–and look forward to hearing about how your past experiences align with them. Procurement Category Manager Position Summary and Key Responsibilities We are seeking a dynamic and analytical Category Manager to join our fast-paced Procurement team. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies for key categories essential to the success of the Games. You will leverage your expertise in strategic sourcing and data analysis to drive value, mitigate risk, and ensure the timely and cost-effective procurement of goods and services. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to one of the most exciting and complex events in the world. This role reports to the Procurement Director. Key Responsibilities • Develop and implement comprehensive category strategies based on market analysis, internal demand, and supplier capabilities. • Lead the end-to-end strategic sourcing process, including Request For Information (RFIs), Request for Proposals (RFPs), and contract negotiations. • Analyze supply chain data to identify trends, opportunities for cost savings, and areas for process improvement. • Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, and manage supplier performance to ensure they meet quality, delivery, and cost targets. • Collaborate with internal stakeholders across various departments to understand their procurement needs and provide expert guidance. • Monitor category spending and performance, providing regular reports and insights on leadership. • Identify and mitigate supply chain risks to ensure the successful delivery of the Games. Background and Requirements Qualifications • Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business, Finance, or a related field. • 5+ years of progressive experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, or category management. • Proven experience in supply chain data analysis, with the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights. • Strong negotiation and contract management skills. • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships with stakeholders at all levels. • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience Physical Requirements and Working Conditions • Available to work onsite in our Downtown Los Angeles-based office. • The majority of work will be conducted in an office setting, requiring extended periods of time using computers, phones, and other office equipment. • The LA28 office is an open floorplan working environment; employees must be able to work efficiently in an open cubicle environment. • Hours of work may vary, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, especially during peak event periods. • Perform other duties as required; the role will evolve over time and may include operational responsibilities during the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Expectations • Ability to work with and influence stakeholders and suppliers. • Experience in the sports, events, or entertainment industry. • Professional certification such as CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management) or CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional). • Experience with e-procurement systems and data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI). The annual base salary range for this position is $88,000.00 - $115,000.00. The pay scale provided is the range that LA28 reasonably expects to pay as starting base compensation for this role. All LA28 compensation remains subject to final determination based on individual candidate qualifications, experience, or other reasonable criteria consistent with LA28’s operational business needs and applicable law. LA28 does not provide relocation assistance. LA28 is committed to fair and unbiased recruitment procedures allowing all applicants an equal opportunity for employment, free from discrimination on the basis of religion, race, sex, age, sexual orientation, disability, color, ethnic or national origin, or any other classification as may be protected by applicable law. LA28 will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance and all applicable laws. We strive to build a team that is inclusive and encourage qualified candidates of all backgrounds, perspectives, and identities to apply. We assess applications based on relevant skills, education, and experience a candidate can add to our team.