Category Manager - IT

Michael Page; Manchester; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent recruitment firm is seeking a Category Manager - IT to lead sourcing and procurement strategies focused on IT-related categories. This role, based in Manchester, involves managing supplier relationships and optimizing procurement processes. The ideal candidate will have proven IT procurement experience and strong negotiation skills, with an emphasis on delivering cost savings and operational improvements. Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits are offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits package

Professional development opportunities

Collaborative work environment

Qualifications

• Proven experience in IT procurement or sourcing, ideally within SAAS and Digital categories.
• Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
• Ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships and influence at all levels.

Responsibilities

• Lead sourcing activities within IT categories, focusing on SAAS and Digital.
• Implement category strategies to deliver savings and improve supplier performance.
• Manage end-to-end procurement processes, including tendering and negotiations.

Skills

IT procurement experience

Negotiation skills

Stakeholder management

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Job description

The Category Manager - IT will lead sourcing, procurement strategies within the retail industry, focusing on IT-related categories. This role is based in Manchester and requires expertise in sourcing, managing supplier relationships and optimising procurement processes.

Client Details

This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established and large organisation operating in the retail industry. The company is committed to delivering high-quality products and services while fostering a professional environment for growth and innovation.

Description

The IT Category and Sourcing Manager will work with the wider procurement team in delivering commercial value across technology categories, with a primary focus on SAAS, Digital Solutions, and Online Services. This role involves managing supplier relationships, driving cost efficiencies, and ensuring robust contractual agreements to mitigate risk and maximise performance.

Responsibilities

• Act as a commercial lead for sourcing activities within IT categories, focusing on SAAS and Digital.
• Develop and implement category strategies to deliver savings, improve supplier performance, and support business transformation.
• Manage end-to-end procurement processes, including tendering, negotiations, and contract execution.
• Conduct regular supplier reviews to ensure compliance with service levels and KPIs.
• Collaborate with Finance, Legal, and Technology teams to ensure alignment on budgets, risk management, and governance.
• Support ESG and sustainability objectives through responsible sourcing practices.
• Provide clear recommendations and reporting on sourcing decisions and contract awards.

Profile

• Proven experience in IT procurement or sourcing, ideally within SAAS and Digital categories.
• Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
• Ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships and influence at all levels.
• Commercial acumen with a focus on delivering cost savings and operational improvements.
• Excellent analytical skills and proficiency in data-driven decision-making.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.Highly organised, proactive, and able to work in a fast-paced environment.

Job Offer

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunity to work in a large organisation
• Professional development and career growth opportunities.
• Collaborative and supportive work environment

If you are ready to take the next step in your career as a Senior Category Manager - IT/ Tech/ Digital Category and Sourcing Expertise , apply today ASAP