Category Lead - IT

Procurement Heads; London; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious international financial institution in London is seeking an accomplished IT Category Lead to manage strategic procurement initiatives. The role focuses on IT and professional services, offering the chance to influence procurement strategy at a high level. Ideal candidates will have MCIPS qualifications and proven success in leading complex projects. The position offers a competitive salary and a hybrid working model, with excellent benefits.

Benefits

Competitive base salary

Performance-related bonus

Life assurance

Private medical insurance

25 days annual leave

On-site nursery

Hybrid working model

Qualifications

• Proven success in leading high-value procurement projects.
• Deep expertise in IT procurement and consultancy engagements.
• Exceptional analytical and planning skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic procurement initiatives across corporate functions.
• Drive contract negotiations and manage supplier relationships.
• Produce market intelligence and spend analysis.

Skills

MCIPS qualified

IT procurement expertise

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Stakeholder influence

Commercial acumen

Education

Strong academic background

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.