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Role Overview
We are seeking a Category Manager to lead strategic sourcing and procurement initiatives for high-spend, complex categories, with a strong focus on IT-related services and solutions. This role requires a proactive, results-driven professional who can navigate a dynamic environment, drive category strategy, and deliver measurable value through negotiation, vendor management, and process optimization.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement category management strategies for assigned categories, including IT professional services, hardware, telecom, and cybersecurity.
- Lead sourcing activities, including RFP development, vendor selection, and contract negotiations.
- Collaborate with business units and IT stakeholders to align sourcing strategies with organizational goals.
- Drive strategic initiatives to optimize supplier relationships and deliver cost savings, risk mitigation, and operational efficiencies.
- Monitor market trends and identify opportunities for innovation and value creation.
- Manage supplier performance and resolve issues to ensure compliance with category governance models.
- Present category strategies and progress updates to internal stakeholders.
- Support organizational change initiatives related to sourcing transformation and vendor structure adjustments.
- Maintain documentation of savings and engage business owners in process improvements.
Qualifications
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Finance, Business, or related field.
- 7+ years of experience in category management, sourcing, or procurement.
- Proven experience in IT-related categories (professional services, managed services, technology consulting).
- Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to work independently and adapt to a fast-changing environment.
Preferred:
- Previous experience as a Category Manager.
- IT procurement experience (infrastructure, cybersecurity, hardware, telecom).
- Experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred).
- Background in global process outsourcing and organizational sourcing transformation.
Work Arrangement
- Hybrid preferred: 3 days onsite if within commuting distance (Madison, WI; Milwaukee; Chicago; Iowa; Minnesota).
- Remote considered for exceptional candidates.
- Travel up to 15%, including occasional overnight trips.
Ideal Candidate
- A go-getter with strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Comfortable driving category direction and influencing stakeholders.
- Transparent, collaborative, and able to thrive in a dynamic environment.
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