The Sr. Associate, Strategic Sourcing and Category Management (GPS) is a member of a procurement service delivery team responsible for assisting category managers (client and WNS) with General & Professional Services category planning and strategy development, benchmarking, collecting market intelligence, managing stakeholders, and developing project pipelines. He or she will lead the client’s defined strategic sourcing execution process, including building cost models, designing and launching of RFIs/RFPs, evaluating bids, planning and executing negotiation strategies, and making award recommendations. Additionally, this role is responsible for drafting and negotiating contracts and managing supplier relationships. A successful candidate will drive year-over-year savings while ensuring quality and service level requirements are met.This role interacts with senior members of the client’s organization on a regular basis, so he or she must have excellent communication skills and be comfortable leading discussions across levels and cultures.In addition, he or she is also responsible for creating a positive work environment and fostering cross-functional and cross-regional collaboration.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: • Hands-on knowledge of General & Professional Services sub-categories (including HR, Consulting, Financial Services, Legal Services, Training & Development, Office Supplies, Facilities Services, etc.)• Awareness of General & Professional Services industry, key suppliers, major trends, cost drivers, pricing models and contracting structures• Possess a natural curiosity and critical thinking ability to thoroughly investigate issues, leveraging time effectively to explore all options and resources. Skilled in analyzing data, prioritizing thoroughness, and developing multiple potential solutions for review, ensuring decisions are evidence-based and effectively communicated to stakeholders• Ability to see the big picture and not get lost in the details• Skilled in turning complex problems into clear visuals and using storytelling to create compelling presentations that engage stakeholders• Skilled in analyzing large datasets to find insights, and creating different scenarios based on findings. Capable of evaluating these scenarios and communicating clear recommendations to stakeholders. Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to provide custom solutions to address the client’s challenges• Strong customer service orientation including demonstrated issue resolution and relationship management skills. Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with client• High level of accuracy and attention to detail• Flexibility to adapt to changing organizations needs• Competence in handling multiple tasks and projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment• Ability to make informed decisions quickly and effectively under pressure• Deep understanding of strategic sourcing methods and an ability to apply various concepts to category-level activities at the client• Ability to determine the appropriate procurement strategy for assigned categories and business requirements• Ability to draft simple to complex contractual agreements• Ability to anticipate client needs and plan communication and project timelines proactively• A self-starter with high professional standards• Demonstrable skills as a team player • Ability to pick up and run with new unforeseen challenges and ambiguity• Strong proficiency using Microsoft Office tools such as Excel, Word and PowerPoint• Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills• Ability to learn and master client specific processes, terminology, political environment, systems, and unique requirements by various business groups