Strategic IT & Services Procurement Leader

ssacareers; Washington; Hybrid; USD 137,000 - 183,000; Full time

Job summary

ssacareers is seeking a seasoned Procurement Category Manager to develop and execute category strategies, lead strategic sourcing, and strengthen supplier partnerships across IT and professional services. The role emphasizes cross-functional collaboration, risk management, and driving cost optimizations in a dynamic environment.

Reporting to the Director of Category Management, the candidate should bring deep procurement experience, strong business acumen, and the ability to influence

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience owning program strategy, end to end delivery, and communicating results to senior leadership.
• 5+ years of work experience in procurement or supply chain management.
• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in supply chain, business, engineering, finance or related field.
• High emotional intelligence with ability to collaborate with stakeholders.
• Experience using data and metrics to drive improvements.
• Experience leading large and complex negotiations.
• Experience cross-functionally with tech and non-tech teams.
• Ability to perform in high-pressure, fast-paced environments.
• Demonstrated experience in strategic sourcing including RFP creation and management.
• Strong vendor management and oversight capabilities.
• Proven ability to use data and metrics to measure improvements.
• Experience in complex problem solving and tight schedules.
• Strong written and oral communication and interpersonal skills.
• Familiarity with Lean, Six Sigma, or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive category strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• Lead sourcing for designated categories, including market research and contract negotiation.
• Build and manage supplier relationships with performance monitoring and development initiatives.
• Identify and mitigate risks to ensure uninterrupted supply and continuity.
• Drive cost reductions through negotiation, value engineering, and total cost of ownership analysis.
• Develop and manage supplier contracts, ensuring regulatory compliance and favorable terms.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and quality teams to align requirements and standards.
• Manage operational issues and escalations with timely resolution.
• Foster collaboration and a results-oriented mindset among stakeholders.

Skills

Category management

Negotiation

Supplier management

Contract management

Cross-functional collaboration

Data-driven decision making

Communication skills

Lean Six Sigma

Strategic sourcing

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree preferred

Job description

ssacareers is seeking a seasoned Procurement Category Manager to develop and execute category strategies, lead strategic sourcing, and strengthen supplier partnerships across IT and professional services. The role emphasizes cross-functional collaboration, risk management, and driving cost optimizations in a dynamic environment.

Reporting to the Director of Category Management, the candidate should bring deep procurement experience, strong business acumen, and the ability to influence