Senior Category Lead, Technology

Porter Airlines; Toronto; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Porter Airlines is seeking a Senior Category Lead for Technology, essential for the sourcing of IT-related goods and services. This role focuses on developing comprehensive strategies, vendor management, and ensuring compliance while contributing to Porter's continuing growth and technology transformation.

Qualifications

• Extensive background in procurement/sourcing related to technology/software.
• Experience managing complex procurements from laptops to cybersecurity solutions.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive IT category strategies.
• Lead and manage complex supplier negotiations.
• Oversee vendor management and procurement activities.

Skills

Negotiation

Leadership

Data Analysis

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, logistics, business administration

Tools

Google software

Microsoft suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Coupa

Microsoft Dynamics GP

Job description

Reporting to the Director, Commercial Services (Procurement), the Senior Category Lead, Technology will be the primary individual responsible for sourcing Porter’s IT, aviation, telecom and corporate technology-related goods and services, inclusive of the broad range of third party systems and software at the organization. As part of our ongoing IT transformation, this role is critical to supporting our ambitious plans. Porter is currently expanding its fleet of 29 DHC Dash 8 aircraft to include 75 Embraer E195-E2 aircraft. As North America’s fastest-growing airline, Porter is seeking top talent to join our dynamic organization with significant growth potential. This individual contributor role is a new and exciting position on the procurement team. We are looking for an individual with strong leadership and negotiation skills and someone who is a self-starter with a results-oriented approach. The successful candidate will have a background in technology procurement or technology-related roles, aligning with our broader goal of driving innovation and efficiency across the organization. Duties & Responsibilities Develop and Implement Category Strategies : Create and implement comprehensive category strategies specifically tailored to IT, software development, support services, hardware, and outsourced technology services. Conduct Complex Supplier Negotiations : Lead and manage complex negotiations with suppliers to achieve the best value for Porter. Vendor Management : Oversee relationships with current and prospective suppliers, ensuring they meet Porter's standards for quality, cost, and delivery. Manage Procurements of Varying Complexities : Handle procurements ranging from low complexity items like laptops to high complexity procurements such as cybersecurity solutions or industry-specific tools. Leverage and Maintain Vendors of Record : Develop and maintain relationships with vendors of record for various IT services, ensuring reliable and cost-effective procurement. Contract Management : Negotiate, draft, and manage contracts with technology vendors, ensuring compliance with terms and mitigating risks. Support Procurement Processes : Collaborate closely with internal teams such as IT, Legal, Finance, and Accounts Payable to ensure seamless procurement processes and integration. Monitor Market Trends : Stay informed about market trends, advancements in technology, and best practices in procurement to maintain a competitive edge. Performance Tracking : Track and analyze vendor performance, addressing any issues and implementing improvement plans as necessary. Budget Management : Manage procurement budgets, ensuring cost-effective purchasing decisions and financial accountability. Compliance and Risk Management : Ensure all procurement activities comply with corporate policies and regulatory requirements, managing risks effectively. Reporting and Analysis : Prepare and present detailed reports on procurement activities, vendor performance, and cost savings to senior leadership. Behavioural Competencies Concern for Safety : Identifying hazardous or potentially hazardous situations and taking appropriate action to maintain a safe environment for self and others. Teamwork : Working collaboratively with others to achieve organizational goals. Passenger / Customer Service : Providing service excellence to internal and / or external customers (passengers). Initiative : Dealing with situations and issues proactively and persistently, seizing opportunities that arise. Results Focus : Focusing efforts on achieving high quality results consistent with the organization’s standards. Fostering Communication : Listening and communicating openly, honestly, and respectfully with different audiences, promoting dialogue and building consensus. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, logistics, business administration, commerce, accounting, engineering, or similar field is desired Extensive background in procurement / sourcing specifically related to technology / software In-depth technology experience, with a strong understanding of IT infrastructure, software development, and support services. Experience managing procurements of varying complexities, from low complexity items like laptops to high complexity solutions such as cybersecurity and industry-specific tools. Strong business acumen with a focus on technology procurement. Assertive negotiation and networking skills with a focus on technology vendors. Proven track record in managing large-scale IT procurement projects. Ability to leverage and maintain vendors of record for different IT services. Solid aptitude for data analysis and decision-making in a technology context. Superior verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly. Strong leadership capabilities in technology procurement. Working knowledge of Google software (Docs, Sheets, Slides) or Microsoft suite of applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Preference given for working knowledge of Coupa and Microsoft Dynamics GP or other P2P / ERP systems.

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Category Lead • Toronto, Ontario, Canada