Category Manager - IT

Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS); Preston; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading social enterprise in the UK seeks a Category Manager - IT to drive value, efficiency, and innovation in their procurement strategies. The role involves owning the IT category, managing procurement processes, and leading a small team to enhance collaboration across departments. Required qualifications include a strong track record in IT category management and strategic sourcing, along with exceptional negotiation skills. This position offers a competitive salary and an extensive benefits package, including matched pension contributions and generous holiday leave.

Benefits

Competitive salary with yearly review

Pension with matched contributions up to 7%

Up to 35 days annual leave

Cashback plan for healthcare costs

Bonus scheme for all colleagues

Training and development

Discounts from shops and cinemas

Qualifications

• Experience in procurement with demonstrable experience in IT category management.
• Ability to deliver value and influence business decisions.
• Skilled in developing and implementing category strategies.

Responsibilities

• Own the IT category, developing and implementing strategies.
• Manage end-to-end procurement processes ensuring compliance.
• Lead and motivate a team fostering collaboration.

Skills

IT Category Management

Strategic Sourcing

Commercial Acumen

Negotiation Skills

Team Management

Job description

At Places for People, we hire People, not numbers! So, if you like the sound of one of our jobs, please apply - you could be just who we're looking for! Of course, experience and track record are important, but we're more interested in hiring someone that embodies our People Promises. That's someone that does the right thing, is enthusiastic and motivated to grow, believes in Community spirit, is respectful and enjoys their work. As the UK's leading Social Enterprise we're dedicated to creating inclusive and thriving Communities for both our Customers and Employees.

So, what are you waiting for? Join a community that cares about you!

Are you ready to lead strategic procurement in the fast-moving world of technology? We're looking for a Category Manager - IT to drive value, efficiency, and innovation across our organisation. This is a fantastic opportunity to shape IT procurement strategies that deliver real impact.

More about the role

In this role, you'll take ownership of the IT category, developing and implementing strategies that align with organisational goals. You'll manage end-to-end procurement processes, ensuring compliance and delivering value for money.

Leading and motivating a small team, you'll foster collaboration and continuous improvement while building strong relationships with stakeholders across IT, Finance, and Legal.

More About You

You'll have experience in procurement, with a strong track record in category management and strategic sourcing. Your commercial acumen and negotiation skills will enable you to influence decisions and deliver value. Experience in managing and developing teams is essential, along with a deep understanding of IT markets and supplier capabilities.

The essential Criteria

• Experience in procurement, with demonstrable experience in IT category management and strategic sourcing.
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to deliver value and influence business decisions.
• Skilled in developing and implementing category strategies, sourcing plans, and robust procurement recommendations in the IT category.

The benefits

We are a large diverse and ambitious business, which will give you all the challenge you could wish for.

We know that there's always more we can do to make you smile, that's why we offer a comprehensive benefits package with each role, yours will include:

• Competitive salary, with a salary review yearly
• Pension with matched contributions up to 7%
• Excellent holiday package - up to 35 days annual leave with the option to buy or sell leave
• Cashback plan for healthcare costs - up to £500 saving per year
• A bonus scheme for all colleagues at 2%
• Training and development
• Extra perks including huge discounts and offers from shops, cinemas and much more