Kearney Strategic Operations Source Principal

As a Principal within Kearney’s Strategic Operations (SOP) Practice – Source, you will play a critical leadership role in shaping and scaling the firm’s sourcing and procurement offering, serving as a trusted advisor to senior client stakeholders and contributing to practice growth.

Responsibilities

• Lead large‑scale sourcing and procurement engagements from diagnostic through execution and value realization.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to C‑suite leaders (CPOs, CFOs, COOs) on procurement strategy and transformation.
• Drive initiatives across strategic sourcing, category management, operating model design, cost optimization, supplier collaboration and risk management.
• Oversee multiple workstreams and cross‑functional teams with full accountability for delivery and outcomes.
• Apply deep expertise in category management, strategic sourcing, digital purchasing transformation, supplier relationship management, and vendor negotiation.
• Develop thought leadership on emerging procurement trends such as digital procurement, ESG sourcing, and supply risk.
• Originate and expand client relationships, lead proposal development, client pitches, and commercial strategy for sourcing engagements.
• Help define and scale Kearney’s SOP Source offering and market positioning.
• Lead, mentor, and develop high‑performing consulting teams, fostering a collaborative and inclusive culture.
• Support capability building within the sourcing and procurement practice.

Requirements

• MBA (preferred) and 10+ years of professional experience.
• Significant Principal‑level experience in top‑tier management consulting.
• Deep expertise in strategic sourcing, procurement, and supplier management.
• Proven experience leading large‑scale procurement transformations and cost‑optimization programs.
• Strong commercial acumen with a track record of business development and revenue growth.
• Experience working with Fortune 500 clients across industries.
• Executive presence with the ability to influence senior stakeholders and C‑suite clients.
• Demonstrated success in leading teams, mentoring talent, and managing complex engagements.
• Exceptional problem‑solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Willingness to travel as required.

Benefits

• Generous retirement/pension savings contributions.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and immediate family.
• Gym membership discounts and subsidized Gympass.
• Non‑partner equity‑based awards (for consulting managers and above).
• Structured on‑the‑job learning and development opportunities.
• Personalized career pathways, mobility programs, flexible work arrangements, and externships.
• Paid time off, 401(k) match and profit sharing.
• Healthcare concierge, backup child/adult care, annual employer HSA contribution.
• Home office stipend.
• Annual wellness program and leaves of absence to support physical, mental, and emotional well‑being.

Pay

Principal base salary: $245,000 – $270,000, with discretionary performance bonus eligibility. Salary within the range is determined by education, experience, knowledge, and skills, and is reviewed regularly for market competitiveness.