Defence IT Category Specialist - Supplier Strategy & Governance

Matchtech Group; Old Warren; Hybrid; GBP 91,000 - 119,000; Full time

Job summary

Matchtech Group is seeking an experienced IT Category Specialist to drive supplier strategy and governance across a critical technology landscape. The role is based in Reading with hybrid work options and an initial 6-month contract.

Security clearance is required (Active SC or DV). You will own supplier relationships, lead negotiations, and ensure delivery against commercial and strategic objectives within a defence environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in defence, aerospace, government, nuclear or critical infrastructure environments.
• Strong track record in IT supplier governance, contract negotiation and vendor performance management.
• Proven ability to manage senior stakeholders across technical and business functions.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute IT supplier and vendor management strategies.
• Manage full supplier lifecycle from selection and onboarding to contract renewal and offboarding.
• Lead sourcing activities, competitive tenders and commercial negotiations.
• Build partnerships with key technology suppliers and service providers.
• Drive supplier performance through robust SLA, KPI and governance frameworks.
• Manage supplier reviews and identify opportunities to improve quality, innovation and cost efficiency.
• Collaborate with Digital, Procurement, Finance and Service Management to optimise supplier performance.
• Identify and mitigate supplier risks, compliance issues and service gaps.
• Support cost-saving initiatives while ensuring critical services remain operational.

Skills

IT supplier governance

Contract negotiation

Vendor performance management

Stakeholder management

Sourcing

SLA/KPI governance

Supplier relationship management

Job description

Matchtech Group is seeking an experienced IT Category Specialist to drive supplier strategy and governance across a critical technology landscape. The role is based in Reading with hybrid work options and an initial 6-month contract.

Security clearance is required (Active SC or DV). You will own supplier relationships, lead negotiations, and ensure delivery against commercial and strategic objectives within a defence environment.