Category Manager - Procurement IT Category Manager

Michael Page (UK); Hemel Hempstead; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable recruitment agency is seeking an experienced IT Category Manager to oversee supplier relationships and develop procurement strategies in Hemel Hempstead. This role requires strong analytical skills and a proven track record in managing IT categories effectively. Candidates should possess over 5 years in procurement and the ability to engage senior management. The company offers a competitive salary, generous leave, and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Competitive salary + bonus

Generous holiday leave

Supportive work environment

Opportunities for professional growth

Qualifications

• 5+ years experience in IT procurement and supplier management.
• Proven track record in managing end-to-end procurement processes.
• Experience in leading IT categories on a national and international basis.

Responsibilities

• Manage supplier relationships under compliance and governance.
• Engage stakeholders for product/service specifications.
• Design and deploy sourcing strategies aligned with business objectives.

Skills

End-to-end procurement management

IT procurement category management

Supplier relationship management

Stakeholder engagement

Analytical skills

Tools

E-sourcing platforms

Spend/savings analytics tools

Job description

• Category Manager - IT - Tech - South East - Herefordshire (Hybrid)
• Fantastic opportunity to develop and grow with the organisation

About Our Client

The company is a reputable and well-established organisation within the manufacturing sector. Operating as a medium-sized enterprise, it is committed to delivering high-quality products and services to its clients while fostering innovation and operational excellence

Job Description

As the IT Category Lead you will be;

• Responsibility for all of the IT category, as well as the development and delivery of the relevant Subcategory Strategies.
• Implement as well as manage supplier relationships as an effective and efficient process, ensuring compliance with all policies, minimum standards and governance/risk mechanisms.
• To ensure that all supplier agreements are effectively implemented by the Managers within the category team.
• Engaging with Stakeholders to develop the most relevant product/service specifications
• Designing and deploying category and sourcing strategies that align to the business and divisional strategies and requirements
• Delivering sustainable competitive through the effective sourcing and spend management of the within the categories. Approx. spend 20mill
• Promote and communicate the value of the Indirect Procurement function across the business UK and internationally
• Responsible for leading cross-functional teams of operational stakeholders, sourcing and commercial management

The Successful Applicant

A successful Category Manager should have:

• A proven track record in managing end-to-end procurement's including sourcing and supplier management
• Ability to manage an IT Procurement Category/ Subcategories HW/ SW, networks and outsourcing,
• Previously led the IT category for an organization on a national and international basis
• 5+ year's experience with ability to advisor senior management on all procurement / contract/ supply chain matters
• Strong background in building and executing long-term category and subcategory strategies aligned to overall business objectives.
• Demonstrated success in implementing and managing Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) processes, including structured supplier performance reviews and governance frameworks.
• Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills, with the ability to engage and gain commitment from diverse business functions and senior leadership.
• Solid understanding of contract review and negotiation, ensuring alignment with business strategies and risk mitigation requirements.
• Strong analytical skills, with experience using e-sourcing platforms and spend/savings analytics tools.

What's on Offer

• A competitive salary + bonus
• opportunity to develop within the organisation Generous holiday leave and a supportive work environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development within the industrial and manufacturing industry.

If you are an experienced Category Manager (IT) looking to make an impact in the procurement and supply chain field, we encourage you to apply today!

Please DO NOT apply if you cannot commute to Hemel Hemstead, (Hybrid) and you must have IT category management experience!