Global IT Category Lead — Remote

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level compensation

Performance-based bonus

Stock options

Health, dental, vision insurance

Retirement plan with company match

Paid time off

Leadership development programs

Global training opportunities

Remote-friendly culture

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Category Manager to drive global IT hardware and software procurement strategy in a remote setup across South Africa. You will shape category plans, lead major negotiations, and partner with IT, finance, and legal to deliver value and risk mitigation.

The role requires deep market knowledge, strong leadership, and a proven track record in strategic sourcing and supplier management in a remote-first environment.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or higher in a relevant field.
• 8+ years of progressive procurement or sourcing experience.
• 3+ years in a leadership role leading global IT hardware and software categories.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement global category strategies for IT hardware, software, and services.
• Lead RFx processes, supplier selection, and complex negotiations with major vendors.
• Manage a multi-million Rand supplier base with focus on performance and risk mitigation.
• Conduct market analysis to identify trends and disruptions in IT sourcing.
• Collaborate with IT leadership, finance, legal and stakeholders to align needs.
• Deliver significant year-over-year cost savings and value creation.
• Mentor junior procurement professionals within the global team.
• Ensure ethical sourcing, sustainability goals, and governance compliance.
• Serve as a primary contact for global supplier relationship management.

Skills

Negotiation

Stakeholder management

Leadership

Strategic sourcing

E-sourcing tools

SAP Ariba

Data analytics

Remote work

Education

Master’s degree in Business Administration

Master’s degree in Supply Chain Management

Master’s degree in IT Management

Tools

SAP Ariba

ERP systems

Job description

Placements24 seeks a Lead Category Manager to drive global IT hardware and software procurement strategy in a remote setup across South Africa. You will shape category plans, lead major negotiations, and partner with IT, finance, and legal to deliver value and risk mitigation.

The role requires deep market knowledge, strong leadership, and a proven track record in strategic sourcing and supplier management in a remote-first environment.