IT Category Manager_Hybrid WFH_(Madison,WI)

Job Title: IT Category Manager (1 year contract+)

Anticipated Start Date: January 5th
Location: Preferred hybrid (3 days onsite) in Madison, WI; Milwaukee, Chicago, Iowa, or Minnesota.
Duration: 12 months, with likely conversion to FTE or additional extensions

Role Overview

The IT Category Manager will lead strategic sourcing and category management for IT-related spend, including infrastructure, cybersecurity, IT professional services, hardware, and telecom. This role focuses on strategy development and execution, not just transactional RFP work. The consultant will partner with IT and business stakeholders to optimize spend, mitigate risk, and align sourcing strategies with organizational goals during a dynamic period of change.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement category strategies for IT categories (professional services, hardware, telecom).
• Collaborate with IT stakeholders to align sourcing strategies with enterprise delivery models.
• Negotiate contracts and manage vendor relationships to achieve cost savings and risk mitigation.
• Lead strategic sourcing initiatives and manage RFx processes for high-complexity categories.
• Monitor market trends and identify opportunities for innovation and efficiency.
• Drive savings initiatives and maintain a pipeline aligned with procurement targets.
• Ensure compliance with category governance and procurement policies.
• Present strategies and results to internal stakeholders and leadership.
• Manage multiple projects with changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Finance, or Business.
• 7+ years of experience in IT category management, procurement, or related fields.
• Proven experience managing IT categories (professional services, managed services, consulting).
• Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work independently and make decisions with limited information.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred).
• Background in organizational sourcing transformation or change management.
• Familiarity with global process outsourcing.
• Ability to communicate complex information to diverse audiences.