IT Procurement Category Manager

The Fountain Group; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 66,124 - 70,849; Full time

Job summary

A procurement services company seeks a Procurement Category Manager III to oversee software procurement categories, particularly CyberSecurity and AI. This mid-senior role involves developing category strategies, supplier management, and contract negotiations. Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant experience and a Bachelor's degree in a related field. Strong negotiation and analytical skills are critical to success in this role.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in procurement, category management, or strategic sourcing required.
• CyberSecurity and AI Software Procurement Experience Strongly Preferred.
• Experience Managing Global/regional Categories Is Preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement category strategies aligned with business goals.
• Identify, evaluate, and qualify suppliers; lead supplier selection.
• Negotiate and draft contracts; manage renewals and compliance.

Skills

Negotiation

Analytical skills

Project management

Communication

Multitasking

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field

Master’s or certifications (e.g., CPM, CPSM)

Tools

Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides)

iProcurement

Apttus

Fieldglass

Job description

This is an onsite position.

Pay: $48-$51.43/hour. W2 ONLY.

Must be able to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Duration: 4 months (possible extension).

🧾 Job Title: Procurement Category Manager III

Responsible for managing Software procurement categories—specifically CyberSecurity and AI—by developing and executing sourcing strategies, building strong supplier relationships, and delivering cost savings, value, and compliance. This mid‑senior level role operates with moderate supervision and handles complex procurement projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Category Management: Develop and implement category strategies aligned with business goals; analyze spend data, market trends, and supply base for opportunities; manage end‑to‑end procurement processes (RFI/RFP/RFQ, negotiation, contracting).
• Supplier Management: Identify, evaluate, and qualify suppliers; lead supplier selection and performance management; build strong relationships to drive innovation and ensure compliance.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with internal teams (Legal, Finance, Business Units); provide training on procurement best practices.
• Contract Management: Negotiate and draft contracts; manage renewals, amendments, and ensure compliance.
• Continuous Improvement & Compliance: Monitor performance, implement KPIs, and recommend improvements; ensure compliance with procurement policies and regulations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field is required.
• Master’s or certifications (e.g., CPM, CPSM) preferred.
• 5+ years in procurement, category management, or strategic sourcing is required.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and project management skills are required.
• Excellent communication and multitasking abilities needed.
• CyberSecurity and AI Software Procurement Experience Strongly Preferred.
• Proficiency in Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides, etc.) preferred.
• Experience Managing Global/regional Categories Is Preferred.
• Familiarity with iProcurement, Apttus, Fieldglass is preferred.
• Knowledge of category‑specific markets and products is preferred.
• Understanding of contract law and compliance is preferred.

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