Category Lead - IT

JR United Kingdom; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent international financial institution seeks a proactive IT Category Lead to influence procurement strategy in London. This role involves leading procurement initiatives, advising stakeholders, and managing supplier relationships. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in IT procurement and negotiation skills, alongside a collaborative mindset. This role comes with an attractive benefits package and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Competitive base salary

Performance-related bonuses

Comprehensive private medical insurance

25 days annual leave

Hybrid working model

On-site medical centre

Subsidised staff restaurant

Qualifications

• Experience in leading high-value procurement projects.
• Deep expertise in IT procurement and consultancy.
• Strong commercial acumen and understanding of contract law.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic procurement initiatives in IT.
• Advise senior stakeholders on commercial strategies.
• Manage supplier relationships and contract negotiations.
• Drive continuous improvement in procurement processes.

Skills

IT procurement expertise

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Stakeholder influence

Education

MCIPS qualified or equivalent

Job description

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Category Lead - IT, london (city of london)

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Client:

Procurement Heads

Location:

london (city of london), United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Views:

4

Posted:

04.08.2025

Expiry Date:

18.09.2025

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Job Description:

Our client, a unique, and prestigious international financial institution, is seeking a proactive, innovative and accomplished IT Category Lead to join its high-performing procurement function at its London headquarters.

This is a rare opportunity to influence procurement strategy at enterprise level, working across a diverse portfolio of high-value contracts in IT, consultancy, and professional services. You’ll be part of a forward-thinking team that champions innovation, transparency, and operational excellence.

Role & Responsibilities

• Lead strategic procurement initiatives across corporate functions, with a focus on IT and professional services
• Act as a trusted advisor to senior stakeholders, shaping long-term commercial strategies and delivering optimal procurement outcomes
• Drive contract negotiations, manage supplier relationships, and resolve complex implementation issues
• Produce insightful market intelligence and spend analysis to inform strategic decision-making
• Build strong cross-functional relationships, influencing change and embedding best practice across the organisation
• Identify and implement opportunities for continuous improvement in procurement processes and supplier performance
• Represent the organisation in external forums, bringing back insights to enhance internal procurement strategy
• Where applicable, lead and develop a small team, fostering a high-performance culture aligned with corporate values

Skills & Experience

• MCIPS qualified (or equivalent) with a strong academic and professional background
• Proven success in leading high-value procurement projects within financial services, banking, or similarly complex environments
• Deep expertise in IT procurement (software, hardware, services) and professional consultancy engagements
• Strong commercial acumen and negotiation skills, with a sound understanding of contract law
• Demonstrated ability to influence senior stakeholders and drive strategic change
• Exceptional analytical, planning, and organisational skills, with a keen eye for detail
• Confident communicator with excellent written and verbal skills
• A collaborative, proactive mindset with the ability to work independently and manage competing priorities

Incredible Benefits Package to include

• Competitive base salary with performance-related bonus opportunities
• Final salary pension scheme or defined contribution pension plan
• Life assurance and income protection cover
• Comprehensive private medical insurance for employees and eligible dependants
• On-site medical centre and access to mental health services
• 25 days annual leave
• Hybrid working model with flexible working hours
• Subsidised staff restaurant and coffee bars
• On-site nursery (subject to availability)

And much more!

This role is ideal for a commercially astute procurement professional looking to make a strategic impact in a globally respected institution, so, if you thrive in a fast-paced, intellectually stimulating environment and are ready to take your career to the next level, we’d love to hear from you.