One of our key clients are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Corporate Category Manager for IT to join their growing procurement team in Cologne. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing and optimising the IT procurement category, with a focus on software, as well as hardware, services, and telecommunications. This role requires a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of the IT landscape and strong negotiation skills to drive cost savings and value for the organisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Category Management: Lead the development and execution of IT category strategies that align with overall company goals. Continuously assess and manage the category's spend, supplier base, and market trends.
- Supplier Management: Identify, evaluate, and manage relationships with key IT suppliers. Negotiate contracts, pricing, and service level agreements (SLAs) to ensure the best value and service for the company.
- Procurement Strategy: Develop and implement procurement strategies that optimise costs, improve efficiency, and enhance supplier performance across the IT category.
- Market Analysis: Conduct thorough market analysis to stay ahead of industry trends, emerging technologies, and potential suppliers. Use this knowledge to inform procurement strategies and decision-making.
- Cost Optimisation: Identify opportunities for cost savings and value improvements within the IT category. Work closely with internal stakeholders to implement and monitor cost-saving initiatives.
- Stakeholder Collaboration: Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including IT, finance, legal, and operations teams, to understand their needs and ensure procurement strategies support business objectives.
- Risk Management: Identify and mitigate risks related to
- IT procurement, including supply chain disruptions, contractual risks, and compliance issues.
- Reporting & Analytics: Provide regular reports
Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, IT, or a related field. A Master's degree or professional certification (e.g., CIPS, CPSM) is a plus.
- Experience: Minimum of 4 years of experience in IT procurement, category management, or a related role within a corporate environment. Experience managing large IT categories is preferred.
- Skills:
- Strong understanding of IT procurement, including hardware, software, cloud services, and telecommunications.
- Excellent negotiation and contract management skills.
- Proficient in procurement software and tools, with strong analytic and data-driven decision-making abilities.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate with stakeholders at all levels.
- Fluent in English and German, both written and spoken.
