Lead Category Manager - Global Procurement - 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

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in the technology sector, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Category Manager to spearhead their global procurement strategy for critical IT hardware and software. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to leverage your expertise from anywhere within South Africa. You will be responsible for developing and executing best-in-class category management strategies, driving significant cost savings, mitigating risks, and fostering strong supplier partnerships on a global scale. This role requires a strategic thinker with exceptional leadership skills, deep market knowledge, and a proven ability to manage complex, international procurement initiatives. The ideal candidate thrives in a remote-first environment and can influence stakeholders across diverse geographical locations and business units.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement global category strategies for IT hardware, software, and related services, aligning with business objectives.
• Lead sourcing initiatives, including RFx processes, supplier selection, and complex contract negotiations with major global vendors.
• Manage and optimize a multi-million Rand supplier base, ensuring performance, compliance, and risk mitigation.
• Conduct in-depth market analysis, identifying trends, opportunities, and potential disruptions.
• Collaborate extensively with IT leadership, finance, legal, and other key stakeholders to understand needs and drive alignment.
• Deliver significant year-over-year cost savings and value creation through strategic sourcing and continuous improvement.
• Develop and mentor junior procurement professionals within the global team.
• Ensure adherence to ethical sourcing practices, sustainability goals, and corporate governance.
• Act as a key point of contact for global supplier relationship management.

Requirements

• A Master’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, IT Management, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in strategic sourcing, category management, or procurement, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Extensive experience managing IT procurement categories globally, including hardware, software licenses, cloud services, and IT consulting.
• Proven track record of delivering substantial cost savings and value in complex global sourcing projects.
• Exceptional negotiation, influencing, and stakeholder management skills.
• In-depth knowledge of IT market dynamics, vendor landscapes, and contracting models.
• Proficiency with e-sourcing tools, ERP systems (e.g., SAP Ariba), and advanced analytical techniques.
• Strong understanding of global supply chain risks and mitigation strategies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to excel in a fully remote work environment, requiring self-discipline and proactive communication.

Benefits

• This fully remote role offers a highly competitive executive-level salary, a significant performance-based bonus program, and comprehensive stock options.
• Employees receive top-tier medical, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement savings plan with company match, and ample paid time off.
• Our client is committed to employee growth, offering access to exclusive leadership development programs, global training opportunities, and support for professional certifications.
• The flexibility of a remote role allows for an exceptional work-life balance.
• You will be part of a globally distributed, innovative, and highly collaborative team, working on cutting-edge technology initiatives.