Category Lead - Technology

1st Executive Ltd; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm is seeking an experienced Lead Category Manager - IT to oversee IT procurement strategies and manage two Category Managers. The role involves optimizing supplier performance and ensuring compliance with procurement regulations. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in IT procurement and strong negotiation skills. A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including hybrid working options, are offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary up to £70,000

25-30 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Hybrid and flexible working options

Access to training and career progression

Employee assistance programme (EAP)

Season ticket loan and cycle-to-work scheme

Inclusive workplace culture

Qualifications

• Significant experience in IT procurement and category management at a senior level.
• Strong knowledge of public sector procurement regulations.
• Proven track record of delivering cost savings.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience managing and developing procurement teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead high-value and complex IT procurement activities.
• Develop and deliver effective procurement strategies.
• Manage supplier relationships and performance.
• Own and deliver the IT Category Strategy.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of procurement professionals.

Skills

IT procurement

Category management

Contract management

Negotiation skills

Stakeholder engagement

Analytical skills

Supplier management

Communication skills

Team management

Education

MCIPS qualification (or working towards it)

Job description

Job Title: Lead Category Manager - IT
Salary: Up to £70,000 per annum
Location: London
Reports to: Head of Procurement
Direct Reports: 2 x Category Managers

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Lead Category Manager - IT to lead, develop, and manage IT procurement strategies and activities. You will be responsible for driving value for money, optimising supplier performance, managing commercial risks, and supporting the organisation\'s strategic objectives through effective category management.

This is a high-profile role where you will lead a small team, manage complex procurements, engage with senior stakeholders, and ensure compliance with public procurement regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Procurement & Contract Management
  • Lead high-value and complex IT procurement activities from business case to contract award.
  • Develop and deliver effective procurement strategies, including early stakeholder engagement and market analysis.
  • Ensure all procurement activity complies with relevant regulations and governance requirements.
  • Manage supplier relationships, including performance monitoring, risk mitigation, and contract handovers.
  • Draft high-quality contractual documentation, reports, and business cases.
• Category Strategy & Planning
  • Own and deliver the IT Category Strategy, ensuring alignment with business priorities.
  • Conduct market analysis, evaluate sourcing options, and assess supply chain risks.
  • Oversee procurement pipelines and allocate resources effectively.
  • Drive procurement transformation initiatives and embed best practices.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, suppliers, and partners.
  • Lead negotiations to secure best-value contracts and ensure quality service delivery.
  • Ensure suppliers meet diversity, sustainability, and responsible procurement standards.
  • Support budget planning, cost optimisation, and savings delivery.
  • Analyse financial data and procurement KPIs to track performance and drive efficiencies.
  • Produce concise reports for senior management and governance boards.
• Leadership & Team Management
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of two procurement professionals.
  • Build a collaborative, high-performance culture within the team.
  • Promote continuous improvement across procurement processes.

Skills & Experience Required

• Significant experience in IT procurement, category management, and contract management at a senior level.
• Strong knowledge of public sector procurement regulations and frameworks.
• Proven track record of delivering cost savings and value through strategic procurement.
• Excellent negotiation, stakeholder engagement, and supplier management skills.
• Strong analytical and financial skills with experience managing budgets and KPIs.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including drafting strategies, reports, and commercial documentation.
• Experience managing, coaching, and developing procurement teams.
• MCIPS qualification (or working towards it).
• Knowledge of responsible procurement, sustainability, and social value policies.

We value our people and offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Competitive salary up to £70,000
• 25-30 days annual leave plus bank holidays (depending on service)
• Hybrid and flexible working options
• Access to training, learning, and career progression opportunities
• Employee assistance programme (EAP) for wellbeing and support
• Season ticket loan and cycle-to-work scheme
• Inclusive workplace culture that values equity, diversity, and collaboration