Category Manager - Tech External Worker

Your Impact

You will shape how our firm strategically deploys client-facing external workers who specialize in technology. Operating within the McKinsey Optimize function, you will serve as the essential bridge between our business leaders and the specialized tech talent needed to deliver exceptional client outcomes.

You will lead the category strategy, transforming how we source and manage these critical external workers to ensure seamless, high-quality experiences for both our engagement teams and our clients. Ultimately, your work will establish a scalable, sustainable strategy that continuously unlocks value, manages risks in complex engagements, and empowers the firm to scale its tech delivery capabilities globally.

You will shape total talent strategies by partnering directly with global and local business leaders to design forward-looking delivery models, successfully aligning external tech talent sourcing with evolving client demands.

Essential Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree (e.g., MBA, PhD) or equivalent practical experience strongly preferred
• 7+ years of successful experience in sourcing, category management, procurement, or consulting, with a strong track record of delivering business value
• Proven operational experience delivering impactful outcomes within a large, global contingent workforce program
• Exceptional analytical skills to assess complex problems, build robust Excel models, track key metrics, and drive data-backed recommendations
• Demonstrated credible leadership and a collaborative style that empowers you to offer innovative ideas and constructively challenge conventional wisdom
• Adept at establishing trusted, non-hierarchical relationships across global geographies, organizational functions, and all levels of seniority
• Strong collaborative capabilities with a proven track record of influencing without direct authority and driving alignment within cross-functional teams
• Highly self-motivated and autonomous, with the ability to balance long- and short-term goals and shepherd initiatives from concept to successful execution
• Strong time management skills and a demonstrated ability to juggle multiple priorities, drive structured processes, and deliver consistent, repeatable outcomes in a fast-paced environment
• High energy and a passion for taking on new challenges, coupled with a deep commitment to the firm's mission and values
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills, with the agility to tailor messages and effectively convey complex information to senior stakeholders