Category Lead (Vancouver, Bc)

Description & Requirements
who we are
lululemon is an innovative performance apparel company for yoga, running, training, and other athletic pursuits. Setting the bar in technical fabrics and functional design, we create transformational products and experiences that support people in moving, growing, connecting, and being well. We owe our success to our innovative product, emphasis on stores, commitment to our people, and the incredible connections we make in every community we're in. As a company, we focus on creating positive change to build a healthier, thriving future. In particular, that includes creating an equitable, inclusive and growth-focused environment for our people.
About This Team
Reporting to the Category Manager (Corporate services), as part of the Procurement team, the Procurement Category Lead will play a critical role in driving cost optimization, promoting supplier inclusion & diversity, and ensuring risk mitigation. Working closely with the Category manager and building relationships across multiple cross-functional teams, the Category lead will leverage market intelligence and data analysis to identify areas of opportunities, develop and execute category and/or sourcing strategies, negotiate optimal value for non-product related goods or services. Operating as part of the larger Procurement function, the Category lead will also have the opportunity to learn from experts in strategy, diversity and inclusion and other specialized procurement domains.
a day in the life
This Role's Responsibilities Include
The Category Lead will collaborate closely with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to generate value and mitigate risk in strategic non-product purchases across the global organization.

• Developing and implementing category and sourcing strategies that align with the business's objectives.
• Leading and managing end-to-end procurement projects (e.g., RFx’s, renewals) to ensure optimal cost while meeting business requirements.
• Leveraging market intelligence, spend data, and other resources to identify opportunities for savings and uncover additional insights.
• Building relationships with suppliers, business units, and cross-functional partners (Legal, FP&A, Cybersecurity, and others).
• Providing timely and accurate project updates for departmental reporting
• Understanding negotiation strategies through leverage scenarios (e.g. Porter’s five forces).
• Effectively communicating with business and FP&A partners to gather project requirements, align on sourcing strategies and supplier selection recommendations, and confirm budget and savings.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in Power BI and/or Smartsheet.
• Previous experience using P2P platforms, e-sourcing, and/or contract lifecycle management systems.
• Ability to multi-task & handle multiple projects working with a variety of cross-functional partners.
• Bachelor's Degree in business or a related field.
• Excellent communication abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Suite (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word).
• Relevant expertise in industry areas such as Benefits, Recruiting, Accounting/Finance, or Tech (preferred).
• Minimum of 3 years in a procurement role.
• Strong project management skills.
• SCMP, MBA, or equivalent (preferred).
• Experience with public companies or working in an international scale (preferred).

must haves

• Lead with courage, knowing the possibility of greatness is bigger than the fear of failure.
• Communicate with honesty and kindness and create the space for others to do the same.
• Possess an entrepreneurial spirit and continuously innovate to achieve great results.
• Integrate fun and joy as a way of being and working, aka doesn’t take yourself too seriously.
• Acknowledge the presence of choice in every moment and take personal responsibility for your life.
• Foster connection by putting people first and building trusting relationships.

Additional Notes
Authorization to work in Canada is required for this role.
Compensation And Benefits Package
At lululemon, investing in our people is a top priority. We believe that when life works, work works. In addition to our competitive Total Rewards offering, we also have personal and professional development offerings. Our offerings recognize our teams for their performance and support whole person development, including support for employees on how to grow their career:  

• Parenthood top-up
• Extensive catalog of development course offerings
• Savings and retirement plan matching
• Paid time off
• People networks, mentorship programs, and leadership series (to name a few)
• Fitness & yoga classes
• Generous employee discount
• Extended health and dental benefits, and mental health plans

Note: Availability of the incentive programs, benefits, and perks may be subject to your location & employment type and may have certain eligibility requirements. The Company reserves the right to alter these incentive programs, benefits, and perks in whole or in part at any time without advance notice.