Sourcing Category Manager

We are looking for a Sourcing Category Manager, Logistics & Transportation to join our team of Valio people (based in Helsinki, HQ). At Valio, we don’t just source - we create competitive advantage through world-class procurement. As a Sourcing Category Manager for Logistics & Transportation, you will play a key role in securing resilient, cost-efficient and sustainable logistics solutions that support our operations. You will act as a strategic partner to Valio’s Logistics team and other internal stakeholders, combining market insight, commercial excellence, and cross-functional collaboration. You will directly contribute to delivering measurable value such as cost and process efficiencies, high service level and sustainable development. Together with the stakeholders, you will create sourcing plans/strategies for Logistics & Transportation, covering e.g. freight, 3PL services, and end-to-end logistics solutions for our operations. As a Sourcing Category Manager your key responsibilities and focus areas are: Category plan & value creation - Define and execute forward-looking sourcing plans/strategies aligned with Valio’s business and sustainability targets, in close collaboration with the internal stakeholders - Identify and deliver cost optimization, development and other value creation opportunities Strategic sourcing & negotiations - Lead sourcing initiatives and competitive tenders across domestic and international logistics markets - Lead contract negotiations with logistics and transportation providers Supply market intelligence & risk management - Monitor market dynamics (freight rates, capacity, cost drivers, geopolitical risks) - Proactively identify and mitigate supply risks to ensure business continuity Stakeholder collaboration - Act as a trusted professional towards senior stakeholders across operations, supply chain, and business units - Build alignment between sourcing opportunities and operational needs Supplier relationship management - Develop and manage an efficient and resilient supplier portfolio - Lead Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) to drive performance, innovation, and sustainability Performance & digitalization - Define and track KPIs and supplier performance metrics - Leverage tools and data to drive procurement excellence and digitalization We are looking for a commercially driven, analytically sharp, and forward-thinking professional who thrives in a dynamic environment: - 3+ years experience in sourcing, ideally within logistics, transportation, or 3PL services, preferably in an industrial context - Demonstrated ability in building collaborative relationships and influencing diverse stakeholders as well as leading cross-functional initiatives - Proven track record in negotiations, cost optimization, and supplier management - Strong analytical capability and market understanding - Proactive, resilient, and solution-oriented mindset - Fluent in Finnish and English - Experience with procurement tools (e.g. Sievo, Noventia or similar) and/or SAP S/4HANA is an advantage - Relevant academic background (e.g. Supply Chain, Supply Management, Engineering, Economics) What we offer for you: This is an opportunity to impact a critical spend area in a globally recognized, sustainability-driven company. At Valio, you will: - Influence logistics strategy across an international supply network - Work in a high-performing, collaborative procurement organization - Develop your career in a company that invests in people, leadership, and capability building - Be part of a purpose-driven culture—together we make life better - Have the possibility to to work in flexible hybrid model (2-3 days at the office per week)