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Category Specialist

A Category Specialist manages purchasing and supply operations, negotiates contracts, and develops policies while ensuring effective communication.

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Common questions

In Australia, a full time Category Specialist generally earns $2,180 per week ($113,360 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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The number of people working in this field is likely to grow moderately in coming years. There are currently 7,400 people employed in this industry in Australia and many of them work as a Category Specialist. Category Specialists may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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If you’re planning a career as a Category Specialist, consider enrolling in a Bachelor of Economics. This course covers a range of topics including microeconomics, macroeconomics, business statistics and analytics. A Bachelor of Commerce or a Bachelor of Business may also be appropriate.

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Further reading

How to start a career in Logistics

14th October 2021

Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers

10th November 2023

What can you do with a Certificate III in Supply Chain Operations?

24th January 2022

Category Specialist careers

A Category Specialist oversees purchasing, supply and delivery operations for a large organisation or business. You might organise and manage contracts with suppliers and carry out negotiations and communications with key stakeholders. Category Specialists may also prepare purchasing and supply policies, procedures and strategies for their organisation.

Category Specialists must have excellent analytical skills and be strong problem solvers. You’ll need to be a good communicator and be able to liaise with people from a range of backgrounds. Category Specialists must be able to follow correct procedures and manage their time well. Negotiation skills are crucial and you’ll need to be able to work as part of a team.