Category manager & Procurement

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Category Manager & Procurement based in the United States. The Category Manager & Procurement professional will lead strategic sourcing and procurement initiatives across assigned spend categories, with a particular focus on IT procurement. This role is responsible for developing category strategies that align with business priorities while maximizing cost efficiency and supplier value. Working closely with senior leadership and key stakeholders, you will build strong supplier partnerships and drive complex negotiations. You will oversee the full procurement lifecycle, from strategic sourcing and contract management to supplier performance and innovation. The position also focuses on leveraging market intelligence, digital procurement platforms, and AI-enabled solutions to improve operational efficiency. This is an opportunity to influence procurement transformation, deliver measurable business results, and strengthen the organization's long-term supplier ecosystem. Accountabilities Responsibilities As Category Manager & Procurement, you will drive category performance, strategic supplier engagement, and continuous improvement across procurement operations. Your responsibilities will include: Develop and execute category strategies that strengthen supplier performance, create competitive advantages, and support overall business objectives. Drive ambitious cost savings, value creation, performance improvements, and innovation initiatives. Establish and maintain strategic relationships with key suppliers, including executive-level partnerships. Lead complex sourcing initiatives, commercial discussions, competitive bidding processes, and contract negotiations. Analyze market trends, supplier capabilities, cost structures, and procurement best practices to identify opportunities. Manage supplier relationships and monitor performance to ensure quality, efficiency, resilience, and alignment with business expectations. Promote the adoption of digital procurement platforms, automation, and AI-enabled procurement solutions. Leverage procurement systems, advanced analytics, and spend data to identify savings opportunities and improve sourcing effectiveness. Collaborate with senior leadership and cross-functional teams to align procurement strategies with organizational priorities. Identify and implement process improvements that enhance operational efficiency and overall business performance. Support organizational transformation and contribute to the development of procurement capabilities and teams. Requirements The ideal candidate combines extensive procurement expertise with strong commercial judgment, strategic thinking, and the ability to influence senior stakeholders. You should bring: A bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Procurement, or a related field. An MBA or other advanced degree is preferred. At least 8 years of professional procurement experience. Strong expertise in IT procurement categories and subcategories. Proven experience in category management, category strategy development, and multi-year sourcing planning. Experience managing multiple procurement categories, with IT procurement expertise strongly preferred. Demonstrated success in strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, competitive bidding, and complex contract negotiations. Strong commercial acumen, including knowledge of cost structures, market dynamics, and risk management. Advanced Excel skills and strong analytical capabilities, particularly in spend analysis and supplier performance evaluation. Familiarity with digital procurement platforms, automation technologies, and AI-enabled procurement solutions. Experience leading complex, cross-functional sourcing initiatives and driving stakeholder alignment. Excellent communication and executive presentation skills, with the ability to engage effecti…

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