Category Manager - IT & Professional Services

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a strategic Category Manager to oversee IT and professional services procurement. This fully remote role supports national operations, collaborating with IT leadership, legal, and finance to drive cost savings and value creation.

The ideal candidate has 7–10 years in strategic sourcing, strong IT landscapes knowledge, and exceptional negotiation and stakeholder skills. Remote, national-scale impact in a leading financial services environment.

Qualifications

• 7–10 years of progressive experience in strategic sourcing and category management.
• Strong focus on IT and professional services contracts.
• Bachelor's degree; Master's or certifications desirable.
• Excellent negotiation and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute IT and professional services category strategies.
• Lead RFPs, RFIs, and vendor negotiations.
• Manage supplier relationships and risk within IT supply chain.
• Collaborate with IT leaders to align needs with procurement.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies and contracts.
• Oversee contract lifecycle from drafting to renewal.

Skills

Negotiation

Stakeholder management

Analytical thinking

Financial acumen

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree or ITIL/CIPS

Tools

Procurement software

Contract management systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly growing financial services institution, is seeking a strategic and experienced Category Manager to oversee IT and professional services procurement for their operations. This fully remote position allows you to leverage your expertise in sourcing complex services and technology solutions from anywhere. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing category strategies, leading high-value negotiations, and driving significant cost savings and value creation within these critical spend areas. You will work closely with IT leadership, legal, and finance teams to ensure alignment with business objectives and mitigate risks. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned procurement professional to make a substantial impact on a national scale, contributing to the efficiency and innovation of a leading firm.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive category strategies for IT hardware, software, telecommunications, and professional services.
• Lead complex sourcing events, including RFPs, RFIs, and negotiations with major technology vendors and service providers.
• Identify and mitigate risks within the IT and professional services supply chain.
• Manage key supplier relationships, ensuring performance, innovation, and value delivery.
• Collaborate closely with IT leadership and business stakeholders to understand current and future needs.
• Analyze market intelligence, category trends, and spending patterns to identify opportunities.
• Develop and implement cost-saving initiatives and value enhancement programs.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant procurement policies, legal requirements, and ethical standards.
• Manage contract lifecycle, including drafting, review, execution, and ongoing management.
• Provide strategic guidance and support to other procurement team members on IT-related sourcing activities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Information Technology, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• A Master's degree or relevant certification (e.g., ITIL, CIPS) is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in strategic sourcing and category management, with a strong focus on IT and professional services.
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex, high-value IT and services contracts.
• Deep understanding of IT landscapes, software licensing, cloud services, and consulting engagements.
• Exceptional negotiation, influencing, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong analytical and financial acumen to drive value and cost savings.
• Proficiency in procurement software and contract management systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote, fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and deliver results.

Benefits

This role offers a highly competitive salary of R per annum , commensurate with experience. As a fully remote position, it provides unparalleled flexibility. Our client provides a comprehensive benefits package, including excellent health coverage, retirement planning options, and generous paid time off. You will have access to continuous professional development and opportunities for career advancement within a leading financial services firm. Join our client's innovative team and shape the future of technology procurement from Kimberley or anywhere across the country.