Asia Category Manager

About the role

Manulife is looking for an experienced Asia Category Manager to lead procurement strategies for Real Estate, Facility Management and selected Technology Professional Services categories. The role will shape sourcing approaches, manage vendor relationships and drive cost‑saving initiatives across the region.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute category and sourcing strategies for Facility Management and other professional services in Asia.
• Manage vendor relationships, negotiate contracts and ensure compliance with corporate policies.
• Monitor Integrated Facility Management (IFM) vendors to capture negotiated labour and third‑party spend benefits.
• Oversee third‑party spend, enforce procurement processes and achieve total savings across contracts.
• Track transaction performance, especially new lease negotiations, and report accrued savings.
• Conduct market analysis and benchmarking to identify cost‑saving and process‑improvement opportunities.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, finance and regional teams to align procurement strategies with business needs.
• Lead cross‑functional teams and stay updated on industry trends to continuously improve procurement practices.

Required profile

• University degree in Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Business or a related field; professional certification (CIPS, CPSM) is a plus.
• 10+ years of end‑to‑end sourcing and spend negotiation experience in indirect categories, preferably within a large multinational financial services organization.
• Proven experience working in a regional team and partnering with local country procurement teams.
• Strong stakeholder management, communication and influencing skills at senior levels.
• Demonstrated ability to drive cost savings and operational efficiencies.
• Excellent written and verbal English proficiency.

Required skills