Executive support

Job Description

Position Title: Auction & Catalog Management Specialist

Department: Procurement / Sourcing

Location: Bangalore

Reports To: Procurement Manager / Category Lead

Role Purpose

The Auction & Catalog Management Specialist is responsible for conducting and managing forward and reverse auctions through the DIGIBUY platform, while ensuring seamless supplier participation and compliance with procurement standards. The role also manages product catalogs within the Ariba procurement system, ensuring accuracy and accessibility. By working closely with category buyers and suppliers, the role drives cost savings, enhances supplier engagement, and contributes to overall procurement efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Auction Management

• Plan, organize, and execute forward and reverse auctions on DIGIBUY.
• Collaborate with category buyers to define auction strategy, format, parameters (bid increments, start prices, duration), and timelines.
• Monitor live bidding activity to ensure compliance and resolve irregularities or disputes.
• Develop standardized auction templates to streamline processes across procurement categories.
• Prepare and deliver post-auction reports with results, savings, and performance insights.

Supplier & Stakeholder Collaboration

• Provide training and guidance to suppliers on auction participation.
• Support supplier onboarding and registration on the DIGIBUY platform.
• Communicate auction rules, deadlines, and processes clearly and consistently.
• Act as the point of contact for supplier inquiries during auction preparation and execution.
• Partner with procurement teams to align auction activities with business objectives.

Catalog Management (Ariba)

• Maintain and update product catalogs in the Ariba system.
• Ensure catalog accuracy, availability, and compliance with procurement standards.
• Coordinate with suppliers and internal teams to reflect product changes, pricing updates, and availability.

Performance & Reporting

• Track, measure, and report cost savings achieved through auctions and sourcing activities.
• Analyze auction data and supplier performance to support informed procurement decisions.
• Recommend strategies for cost reduction, supplier optimization, and value creation.

Decision-Making Authority

• Operates within the organizations Schedule of Authority (SOA).
• Responsible for planning, executing, and reporting daily, monthly, and annual auctions.
• Recommends auction approaches, template designs, and process improvements.

Required Skills & Competencies

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for supplier and stakeholder engagement.
• Analytical mindset with ability to interpret auction data and supplier performance.
• Organizational and planning skills to manage multiple auctions and catalogs.
• Problem-solving skills to address live auction issues and supplier concerns.
• Proficiency in procurement systems (DIGIBUY, Ariba, or similar platforms).
• Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in catalog and auction data.
• Ability to work cross-functionally and build collaborative relationships.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or related field.
• 2–5 years of experience in procurement, sourcing, or auction management.
• Hands-on experience with e-auction platforms (DIGIBUY preferred) and catalog management systems (Ariba or equivalent).
• Basic auctioneer or e-auction training desirable.
• Proven track record of achieving cost savings and procurement efficiency.

Success Criteria

• Demonstrated cost savings through effective auction execution.
• High supplier participation and satisfaction.
• Compliance with procurement policies and category-specific requirements.
• Timely and accurate maintenance of catalogs in Ariba.
• Professionalism and integrity in handling all supplier interactions.

Career Path / Succession Opportunities

This role provides a growth path into Category Buyer, Sourcing Manager, or Procurement Strategy Lead positions, based on performance and capability development.