About the opportunity
The World Bank Group (WBG) Corporate Procurement Department is responsible for coordinating and overseeing sourcing strategy, selection, and contract execution for over 130 offices globally. The Senior Procurement Specialist (Category Head) for Corporate Services and Real Estate will lead a team of 10+ Category Managers and analysts. This role is responsible for developing and implementing category strategies that deliver value, mitigate risk, and promote sustainability. The Category Head provides strategic leadership, governance, and oversight across procurement categories, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives. The position requires deep expertise in category management, the ability to mentor staff, and the skill to act as a trusted advisor to senior business leaders across the WBG’s global operations.
Salary and benefits
- Opportunity to lead a global team of procurement professionals
- Strategic influence over WBG's corporate services and real estate procurement
- Professional development through team mentorship and leadership
- Exposure to complex, high-value international sourcing initiatives
Who can apply?
- Proven experience in category management strategies and practices
- Demonstrated leadership and people management skills for a team of 10+ staff
- Expertise in conducting sourcing initiatives, negotiations, and dispute resolution
- Ability to advise on policy-related matters and collaborate with senior business partners
- Familiarity with procurement principles including transparency, fairness, and best value
Required documents
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter
When to apply
- Applications must be submitted by 2026-10-19 at 11:59pm UTC
How to apply
- Visit the official World Bank Group careers portal
- Locate the requisition for Senior Procurement Specialist (Category Head – Corporate Services and Real Estate)
- Submit the application through the online portal before the deadline
Additional information
- The duty station will be determined based on the best fit of the selected candidate and their location.
- The role requires frequent interaction with WBG staff at all levels and external supplier representatives.
- The position may require frequent adjustments to work schedules due to time zone differences and limited travel.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Experienced procurement leaders with a background in managing large, cross-functional teams in a global corporate environment.
- Professionals with specialized expertise in Corporate Services and Real Estate category management.
- Strategic thinkers who excel at balancing commercial value, risk management, and sustainability in supply chains.
What should you think carefully about?
- The role involves significant time zone coordination, which may require non-standard working hours.
- Candidates should be prepared for a high-stakes environment involving senior-level stakeholder management and complex contract negotiations.
- While the duty station is flexible among three global hubs, the nature of the work requires a high degree of availability for global operations.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is ideal for a senior procurement professional looking to transition into a high-impact leadership position within a major international development institution. It offers the chance to shape global procurement strategy and lead a diverse, international team, making it a strong career move for those aiming to influence organizational efficiency and sustainable supply chain practices at scale.
Our take
This is a senior-level leadership opportunity best suited for experienced procurement managers with a proven track record in category strategy and team development. Candidates who thrive in complex, global, and stakeholder-heavy environments will find this role highly rewarding, while those seeking a purely operational or individual contributor role may find the leadership and advisory demands of this position less suitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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