.Labor Category Specialist Description - Applies developed subject matter knowledge to solve common and complex business issues within established guidelines and recommends appropriate alternatives. Works on problems of diverse complexity and scope. May act as a team or project leader providing direction to team activities and facilitates information validation and team decision making process. Exercises independent judgment within generally defined policies and practices to identify and select a solution. Ability to handle most unique situations. May seek advice in order to make decisions on complex business issues. Responsibilities: Review medium complexity level of Statements of Work for stakeholders for negotiation opportunities, risk mitigation, compliance Review queue of Purchase Requisitions needing Category Manager level review Performs analysis of portfolio spend data to identify opportunities for supplier optimization, cost reduction, risk mitigation Participates as a key member on a cross-functional team (may lead specific projects). Meets with Stakeholder managers to understand business priorities and translate them into procurement plans; comprehends the industry and the Marketplace. Utilizes e-sourcing tools for RFx events and contract management Participates in Supplier Selection Activities. May lead activities for low to mid complex domains. Assesses the supply base of category. Negotiates and contracts with suppliers; has basic understandingof legal terms and conditions associated with contracts Engages with low-to-mid complexity suppliers. Monitors supplier performance. Executes risk mitigation, business continuity, cost management, and operation strategies. Identifies common contract risk areas. Advises program level business representatives on fundamental contract risk areas. Education and Experience Required: First level university degree or equivalent experience; may have advanced university degree. Typically 4-6 years of experience in procurement or supply chain function. Knowledge and Skills: Strong understanding of procurement processes, industry, and suppliers. Strong analytical skills. Strong business application skills (e.G., Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint) and supply chain modeling skills. Strong knowledge and use of procurement tools and applications. Strong communication skills, including presentation and negotiation abilities. Basic Project Management Skills. Basic ability to develop suppliers Strong teamwork and basic leadership skills; basic influencing skills. Mastery in English and local language. Ability to create a contract using standard HP contract templates with supervision. Applies cause and effect thinking to identify common contract risk areas. Capable of applying pre- packaged contract solutions to obtain acceptable outcomes. Solid understanding of fundamental contracting principles. Good understanding of HP business units and HP business strategy