At Diageo, we are the proud custodians of some of the most iconic and world-renowned brands including Johnnie Walker, Baileys, Guinness, and Smirnoff. Every year, we source, produce, and deliver over 6.5 billion litres of premium products to more than 180 markets globally. This incredible reach is powered by our people and the way we work – bold, dynamic, and deeply committed to delivering value.
A crucial part of this journey is our Procurement team, the engine that drives efficiency, innovation, and growth across all corners of our business. With over £5 billion spent annually, Procurement is more than a support function – it is a strategic partner shaping how we source, collaborate, and thrive in today’s fast-changing world.
We are looking for a talented and driven Market Category Specialist – Professional Services Africa to join our Nairobi team. This role offers the chance to work at the heart of our supply chain, develop strategies that impact millions of consumers, and be part of an inclusive global community that values ambition, curiosity, and resilience.
If you’re ready to challenge yourself and grow your career in a dynamic, multinational environment, this opportunity is for you.
About the Function
Diageo’s Supply Chain and Manufacturing team is a hub of problem-solvers and innovators. Over half of our 30,000+ employees worldwide are part of this function, which spans over 100 sites in 30+ countries.
This team ensures that our products reach consumers efficiently and sustainably, from sourcing raw materials to building supplier relationships and delivering finished products. We are committed to our “Society 2030: Spirit of Progress” goals, working to protect the environment, support our farmers and suppliers, and strengthen the communities where we operate.
When you join us, you will become part of this vibrant network, supported to thrive and empowered to contribute to meaningful impact.
About the Role
The Market Category Specialist – Professional Services Africa will be a key member of the Procurement team, responsible for driving category excellence, supporting sourcing initiatives, and contributing to strategy development and execution.
This role is both strategic and hands-on, offering the chance to work across diverse categories, partner with global teams, and grow into a subject-matter expert within procurement.
You will develop market insights, lead category planning, engage suppliers, and ensure that Diageo maintains its reputation for quality, innovation, and efficiency across Africa.
Key Responsibilities
Applied Expertise
- Build knowledge and expertise in professional services categories.
- Share insights on supply markets, stakeholders, negotiation strategies, and suppliers.
- Establish yourself as a subject-matter expert in the global procurement community.
Category Excellence
- Lead development of market intelligence, category strategies, and sourcing events using Diageo standards.
- Enhance procurement tools and techniques for stronger outcomes.
Business Partnering & Strategy Development
- Collaborate with category managers and stakeholders to capture business needs.
- Analyze market dynamics and opportunities to evolve procurement strategies.
- Develop cost models and financial scenarios with suppliers and stakeholders.
- Support reviews of strategies with actionable insights and regular analytics.
Strategy Execution
- Implement category strategies across markets and organizational levels.
- Track progress against targets and provide detailed KPI reports.
- Facilitate execution across geographical and functional boundaries.
Sourcing Activities
- Execute sourcing initiatives for both global leverage and market-specific categories.
- Plan and prepare negotiations using Diageo’s Negotiation Toolkit.
- Support contract closures and ensure compliance throughout lifecycles.
Risk Management
- Identify and mitigate strategic risks during strategy execution.
- Proactively address sourcing risks in collaboration with suppliers and stakeholders.
Supplier Relationship Management
- Build trust-based relationships with key suppliers.
- Monitor and improve supplier performance using KPIs and data insights.
- Ensure suppliers consistently deliver value, reliability, and sustainability.
Excellence in Supply Chain – Source
- Apply best practices in end-to-end processes such as Source-to-Pay.
- Contribute to KPI-driven performance frameworks and structured reporting.
- Continuously upskill through Diageo’s Learning Hub and role-specific training.
Skills and Experience Required
To succeed in this role, you should bring:
- Graduate or equivalent qualification.
- Membership in a recognized professional body such as CIPS.
- 4–5 years’ experience in Procurement, Finance, FMCG Commercial, or a related field.
- Proven ability to develop and execute category strategies.
- Strong supplier negotiation and relationship management experience.
- Analytical strength, commercial acumen, and financial awareness.
- Proficiency in tools such as SAP, PRDM, MS Office, and e-collaboration platforms.
- Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
- Track record of consistent performance and delivering results.
Diversity and Inclusion at Diageo
At Diageo, our purpose is to celebrate life, every day, everywhere. Inclusion and diversity are central to that mission. We welcome people from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives – and we create environments where everyone can thrive.
From gender and ethnicity to ability, age, and mindset, we are committed to building an inclusive culture where all voices are heard and valued. When you join us, you help champion this culture while growing your career with one of the world’s most trusted consumer goods companies.
Flexible Working
Flexibility is key to how we operate. We recognize the importance of work-life balance and provide opportunities to discuss what flexibility means to you so you feel supported from day one.
Why Join Diageo?
- Be part of a global leader in the FMCG sector.
- Work on strategic procurement initiatives that shape markets and impact millions of consumers.
- Access world-class learning and development programs to accelerate your career.
- Collaborate with diverse teams across Africa and beyond, building networks that will last a lifetime.
- Contribute to meaningful sustainability and inclusion goals as part of our Society 2030: Spirit of Progress commitments.
Job Details at a Glance
- Position: Market Category Specialist – Professional Services Africa
- Location: Nairobi, Kenya
- Job Type: Full Time, Regular
- Requisition ID: JR1117990
- Primary Location: Nairobi HQ
- Job Posting Start Date: September 18, 2025
- Application Deadline: September 29, 2025 (8 days left to apply)
How to Apply
If this opportunity excites you and you believe you have the skills, experience, and passion to succeed at Diageo, we encourage you to take the next step.
Click below to begin your application and join us in shaping the future of procurement and supply chain at Diageo.
