Company Name
T. Rowe Price
Search Job Title
One Senior Category Manager and Two Category Managers
Client Profile
T. Rowe Price, a global investment management firm dedicated to helping clients achieve long-term success.
Role Objectives & Challenges
This was a package deal, as T. Rowe Price was undergoing a significant procurement transformation. The company aimed to evolve from a tactical procurement approach to a strategic, indirect procurement function that could address the complex needs of a large, dynamic organization. The roles required candidates with strategic expertise in developing category plans, building and maintaining high-level relationships with buyers, and leading complex negotiations. This transformation necessitated a shift away from purely transactional practices toward a strategic focus on adding value across the organization. In addition to possessing strong business acumen and executive presence, candidates needed the ability to create, develop, and sustain strategic relationships. Balancing internal stakeholder needs with external vendor partnerships was critical to ensure the successful creation and ongoing implementation of effective procurement processes. These roles were integral to the company’s long-term strategic goals.
Our Approach to Solve the Search
T. Rowe Price’s openness to fully remote roles allowed for a national talent search. Our team strategically targeted major cities in comparable time zones, focusing on candidates based near major airport hubs for ease of travel when required. We prioritized sourcing candidates from organizations of a similar size with similar annual procurement spend and responsibilities. Emphasis was placed on finding professionals with proven experience in key categories essential to T. Rowe Price's needs. Additionally, we rigorously vetted candidates to ensure they had a demonstrated ability to drive change within large organizations, particularly through effective stakeholder engagement and strategic implementation.
The Hire & Results
Three exceptional candidates were hired—one Senior Category Manager and two Category Managers—within a standard timeline. Throughout the process, we collaborated closely with the company’s Talent Acquisition (TA) team and the Vice President of Procurement. Open communication and timely feedback from T. Rowe Price played a pivotal role in maintaining a high level of service and efficiency. These hires equipped the organization with the expertise and leadership necessary to successfully execute their procurement transformation and meet their strategic objectives.
