Global Category Manager - Technology

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Global health benefits

Stock options

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Global Category Manager specializing in Technology Procurement. This fully remote role drives strategic sourcing for software, hardware, IT services and cloud solutions on a global scale, while aligning with the Port Elizabeth regional hub in Eastern Cape.

You will develop category strategies, lead end-to-end sourcing events (RFIs, RFPs, negotiations), manage supplier portfolios, mentor procurement teams, and build strong executive relationships to deliver

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in strategic sourcing and category management with a strong focus on technology procurement.
• Demonstrated success in managing complex, global technology sourcing projects and multi-million dollar spend.
• Expertise in contract negotiation, financial analysis, and supplier relationship management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive global category strategies for technology spend (hardware, software, IT services, cloud, telecommunications).
• Lead end-to-end sourcing events, including RFIs, RFPs, and negotiations with global technology suppliers.
• Identify and realize significant cost savings and value creation opportunities across technology categories.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key internal stakeholders and executive leadership across different business units.
• Manage and develop a portfolio of strategic technology suppliers, ensuring performance, innovation, and risk mitigation.
• Conduct thorough market analysis to understand technology trends, supplier landscapes, and best practices.
• Develop and implement robust contract management frameworks for technology agreements.
• Drive adoption of new technologies and solutions that align with business objectives.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements globally.
• Mentor and guide junior procurement team members on technology-specific sourcing.

Skills

Strategic sourcing

Category management

Negotiation

Stakeholder management

Leadership

Education

Master's degree in Business Administration / Supply Chain Management / Information Technology

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in digital solutions, is looking for a seasoned Global Category Manager specializing in Technology Procurement. This is a fully remote, impactful role where you will drive the strategic sourcing and management of all technology-related expenditures on a global scale. The position requires a deep understanding of the technology landscape, including software, hardware, IT services, and cloud solutions. You will be responsible for developing category strategies, leading global sourcing initiatives, and fostering strong supplier relationships to ensure optimal value and innovation for the organization. This role offers the ultimate flexibility, allowing you to work from anywhere while contributing significantly to our client's success. Although no physical location is tied to this role, the operational hub is considered to be in the region of Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive global category strategies for technology spend (hardware, software, IT services, cloud, telecommunications).
• Lead end-to-end sourcing events, including RFIs, RFPs, and negotiations with global technology suppliers.
• Identify and realize significant cost savings and value creation opportunities across technology categories.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key internal stakeholders and executive leadership across different business units.
• Manage and develop a portfolio of strategic technology suppliers, ensuring performance, innovation, and risk mitigation.
• Conduct thorough market analysis to understand technology trends, supplier landscapes, and best practices.
• Develop and implement robust contract management frameworks for technology agreements.
• Drive adoption of new technologies and solutions that align with business objectives.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements globally.
• Mentor and guide junior procurement team members on technology-specific sourcing.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Information Technology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in strategic sourcing and category management, with a strong focus on technology procurement.
• Demonstrated success in managing complex, global technology sourcing projects and multi-million dollar spend.
• In-depth knowledge of various technology domains (e.g., SaaS, PaaS, IaaS, enterprise software, IT infrastructure, cybersecurity).
• Expertise in contract negotiation, financial analysis, and supplier relationship management.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and influencing skills, with the ability to engage with senior executives.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking capabilities.
• Proven ability to thrive and lead effectively in a fully Remote work environment.
• Experience with global sourcing and diverse regulatory landscapes.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., CPSM, CIPS) are a plus.

Benefits

• This fully Remote position offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive global health benefits, significant performance-based bonuses, and stock options.
• Our client provides unparalleled opportunities for professional growth, continuous learning, and career advancement within a cutting-edge, international organization.
• Enjoy the autonomy and flexibility of a remote role while making a substantial impact on global technology procurement strategies for a leader in the digital solutions space, notionally connected to Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape .