IT Category Manager - Software & SaaS

The Lubrizol Corporation; Wickliffe (OH); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) match

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage

Paid holidays and vacation

Job summary

The Lubrizol Corporation in Wickliffe, Ohio is seeking a Procurement Manager (Regional Category Manager) to lead strategic sourcing for IT software and digital services. This role involves negotiating agreements, managing supplier relationships, and optimizing costs.

The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor’s degree and at least 3 years of relevant experience in procurement. Benefits include competitive salary, 401(k) match, and opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of procurement or sourcing experience.
• Experience managing IT software or indirect spend categories.
• Ability to work effectively across regions and cultures.

Responsibilities

• Own and manage IT Software and Digital Services categories.
• Develop and execute strategic category plans.
• Lead commercial negotiations for software agreements.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Stakeholder management

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

Tools

Digital procurement tools

Job description

Shape the Future with Us.

At Lubrizol, we are dedicated to creating a better, more sustainable future through science, sustainability, and a culture of inclusion.

Role Overview

As a Procurement Manager (Regional Category Manager) – IT Software, you will lead strategic sourcing and supplier management initiatives across enterprise software, SaaS, and digital services. You will partner with cross‑functional stakeholders to drive value, manage risk, and enable business transformation.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and manage IT Software and Digital Services categories within a regional and global matrix organization.
• Develop and execute strategic category plans aligned with business and procurement objectives.
• Lead commercial negotiations for software agreements, including pricing models, renewals, license true‑ups, and service‑level agreements.
• Drive value through cost optimization, demand management, and application rationalization.
• Track and report key performance indicators related to cost savings, compliance, supplier performance, and risk mitigation.
• Identify and mitigate supplier, contractual, cybersecurity, and financial risks.
• Build and maintain strategic supplier relationships and governance models.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with IT, Finance, Legal, and Information Security partners.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience.
• 3+ years of procurement or sourcing experience.
• Experience managing IT software or indirect spend categories.
• Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
• Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work effectively across regions and cultures.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and digital procurement tools.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree or Master of Business Administration (MBA).
• Experience sourcing software‑as‑a‑service, cloud, or enterprise software.
• Knowledge of software licensing models.
• SAP or enterprise resource planning experience.
• Advanced sourcing or negotiation training.
• Spanish or bilingual written and speaking skills.

Work Environment

• Standing, walking, or operating equipment for extended periods.
• Working in a lab or manufacturing setting with appropriate personal protective equipment provided.
• Use of computers and digital tools in an office or hybrid environment.
• Occasional lifting or movement of materials.
• Adherence to rigorous safety protocols and ergonomic standards.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance‑based bonus plans.
• 401(k) match plus age‑weighted defined contribution.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Health Savings Account.
• Paid holidays, vacation, and parental leave.
• Flexible work environment.
• Learning and development opportunities.
• Career and professional growth.
• Inclusive culture and vibrant community engagement.