Category Manager - Operations

Category Manager - Operations

We are a leading logistics provider across Australia with 34 branches nationwide. We are looking for a Category Manager - Operations to lead key procurement categories and play a critical role in strengthening our commercial performance and operational efficiency. The role can be based at our Perth or Brisbane office.

Location

Perth Airport WA or Brisbane, QLD

About the Role

The Category Manager - Operations will oversee the procurement categories of Fuel, Tyres, Parts/Spares and Plant Hire, managing the full end-to-end purchasing lifecycle across these areas. The role will lead a small team including Storepersons, a Fuel Analyst and administrative support, ensuring streamlined processes, strong supplier relationships and compliance with procurement policies. The role will focus on contract negotiation and management of all vendors across these categories ensuring best price and quality are met along with updating pricing nationally for Centurion sites. The role will also oversee the inventory management and monthly reconciliations of both Fuel and the Internal Tyre fitting.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee management of Centurion’s procurement categories including Fuel, Tyres, Parts/Spares, and Plant Hire.
• Develop, negotiate, and implement supplier contracts, agreements, RFPs, and RFQs to achieve best pricing, quality, and operational efficiency.
• Liaise with internal stakeholders to understand product and service requirements.
• Maintain supplier price files to support a centralised purchasing model and accurate national pricing updates.
• Lead inventory management processes for fuel and tyres, including weekly stocktakes and monthly reconciliations.
• Manage vendor relationships, chair quarterly performance reviews, and resolve supplier issues, delays, or quality concerns.
• Provide effective leadership to Stores and Fuel team members.
• Ensure a safe working environment, reporting incidents or hazards promptly.
• Maintain compliance with OH&S, quality standards, and internal procurement procedures.

Skills and Experience

• 3+ years’ experience in procurement or category management roles.
• Background in one or more relevant categories such as Fuel, Tyres, Parts/Spares or Plant Hire (desirable).
• Exposure to inventory management or supply chain operations (desirable).
• Strong communication and relationship management skills to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
• Excellent negotiation skills and ability to manage complex change projects.
• High proficiency in Microsoft 365, Excel, and ERP systems.
• Experience in procurement processes and delivering results against targets.
• Collaborative,, and driven to make a lasting impact.
• Experience managing supplier contracts, negotiations, and performance outcomes.

Why Join Centurion?

• Be part of a respected national logistics provider.
• Lead critical procurement categories with significant business impact.
• Supportive team culture and leadership.
• Opportunities for professional growth within a large and diverse organisation.
• Commitment to safety, innovation and continuous improvement.

How to Apply

If you’re a procurement professional with strong commercial acumen and a passion for building efficient, compliant and value-driven supply chains, we’d love to hear from you! We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourage applications from women and First Nations people. Please note that we do not accept applications from recruitment agencies. Direct applicants only.