Category Manager - IT

Michael Page (UK); Newcastle upon Tyne; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in Newcastle upon Tyne seeks an IT Category Manager to drive strategic procurement initiatives. This senior role involves managing high-value contracts, developing IT strategies, and enhancing supplier relationships. Ideal candidates will have significant experience in IT category management, strong negotiation skills, and a collaborative mindset. The position offers a hybrid working model, excellent benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Hybrid working model

Excellent pension scheme

Generous leave

Opportunities for professional development

Supportive team culture

Qualifications

• Significant experience in IT category management in complex environments.
• Proven skills in tenders, negotiations, and contract management.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of an IT Category Plan.
• Negotiate and manage high-value IT contracts.
• Build and maintain supplier relationships.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder Engagement

Communication

Strategic Mindset

Education

CIPS qualification (Level 4+ or equivalent)

Degree

Job description

Job Description

The IT Category Manager will be responsible for setting the strategic direction and delivery of the IT procurement function across a complex organisation. This senior role reports to the Head of Procurement and supports the institution's strategic objectives through innovative sourcing, supplier management, and stakeholder engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of an IT Category Plan based on data and market analysis.
• Design and execute strategic sourcing strategies to deliver value and savings.
• Negotiate and manage high-value IT contracts with stakeholders across departments.
• Build and maintain supplier relationships, managing performance via KPIs and dashboards.
• Ensure procurement compliance with policies and regulations.
• Provide commercial advice, lead procurement training, and support capital planning.
• Coach junior team members and develop procurement capabilities.

The Successful Applicant

Ideal Candidate

• Significant experience in IT category management in complex environments.
• Proven skills in tenders, negotiations, and contract management.
• Knowledge of UK procurement regulations and best practices.
• Excellent leadership, stakeholder engagement, and communication skills.
• Strategic, collaborative, and value-driven mindset.
• CIPS qualification (Level 4+ or equivalent) and degree.

Desirable

• Experience in the public sector.
• Knowledge of IT asset management (ITAM).
• Understanding of bid cost modelling.

What's on Offer

Benefits include:

• Hybrid working model with flexible on-site and remote options.
• Excellent pension scheme and generous leave.
• Opportunities for professional development.
• Supportive, collaborative team culture.

Apply today via Michael Page to explore this opportunity and help shape the future of IT procurement in a forward-thinking, mission-driven organisation.