Category Manager - IT

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced IT Category Manager to join our Global Procurement team, supporting strategic procurement initiatives and day-to-day sourcing activities across the IT function.

Working closely with stakeholders up to VP level, you will develop category strategies, manage supplier relationships, negotiate commercial agreements, and deliver measurable value through effective procurement practices.

This role requires strong commercial acumen, stakeholder management, and the ability to balance strategic planning with hands-on delivery in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end category management for assigned IT procurement categories, supporting additional IT areas as required.
• Develop and implement category strategies that deliver cost savings, value, innovation, and operational improvements.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders and strategic suppliers to achieve business objectives.
• Manage sourcing activities, supplier selection, contract negotiations, and procurement processes from initiation through to completion.
• Oversee supplier performance and contract lifecycle management, ensuring maximum commercial value through effective Supplier Relationship Management (SRM).
• Collaborate with Legal, Information Security, and other internal teams to ensure contracts meet regulatory, security, and compliance requirements.
• Monitor supplier performance, procurement savings, spend, and project delivery through accurate reporting and analysis.
• Identify opportunities to improve procurement processes, promote best practices, and contribute to the ongoing development of the Procurement function.
• Ensure supplier onboarding, governance, risk management, and procurement activities comply with company policies and regulatory standards.

Key Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in IT Category Management within a procurement environment.
• Strong knowledge of strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, contract negotiation, and procurement best practices.
• Experience managing complex stakeholder relationships across multiple business functions and senior leadership teams.
• Excellent commercial awareness with strong analytical and data interpretation skills.
• Ability to negotiate effectively and influence stakeholders at all organisational levels.
• Strong problem-solving, organisational, and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, balancing strategic planning with operational delivery.
• Collaborative, proactive, and adaptable with a continuous improvement mindset.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
• High levels of resilience, emotional intelligence, and customer focus.