Global Category Manager IT

IT Category Manager will be responsible for developing and executing a global strategy for sourcing and procurement of IT-related products and services across the organization. This role requires a strategic thinker with deep expertise in IT procurement, supplier relationship management, and global category management.

You will collaborate with key stakeholders across regions to ensure alignment of procurement strategies with business objectives, while driving cost efficiencies, ensuring quality, and managing risks.

This position will be based out of our Central Birmingham office 4 days per week., Strategic Sourcing and Category Management

• Own the development and execution of the global IT & Telecoms category strategy for the organisation, including software, hardware, cloud services, telecom, and IT services.
• Provide value adding procurement consultation to the organisation through a thorough understanding of the business needs.
• Identify and assess global suppliers, negotiate contracts, and manage supplier relationships to ensure the best value, quality, and service for the organization.
• Utilise optimal sourcing methods to balance cost, risk, quality and speed. Lead the sourcing activities and negotiations including RFPs, RFIs, ensuring compliance with company policies and industry regulations.

Cost Management and Optimization

• Drive global cost-saving initiatives, leveraging scale and best practices across regions. Realise value for the organisation through market developments and industry best practises to drive efficiencies and global cost savings.
• Analyze market trends, benchmarking data, and internal spend analytics to identify opportunities for cost reduction and process improvement.
• Monitor and report on global spending and savings within the IT category, ensuring alignment with budget targets.

Supplier Relationship Management

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with key global suppliers, ensuring they meet performance standards and contractual obligations.
• Proactively manage new suppliers, services, and service extensions in conjunction with internal stakeholders to maximise the benefits from financial, operational improvement and risk mitigation.
• Implement supplier performance management programs to monitor, evaluate, and improve supplier performance.
• Resolve supplier-related issues effectively and efficiently, ensuring minimal disruption to business operations.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate with global and regional stakeholders, including IT, finance, legal, and operations teams, to align procurement strategies with business needs.
• Work with regional procurement teams to ensure consistency in sourcing strategies and leverage global agreements.
• Provide guidance and support to regional procurement teams, sharing best practices and ensuring adherence to global procurement standards.
• Identify and facilitate conversations with stakeholders regarding opportunities for technology innovation.
• Keep internal stakeholders informed of Procurement activities and progress through collaborative working and pro-active communication.
• Champion positive change and continuous improvement leading initiatives as part of procurements ongoing growth and development

Risk Management

• Identify potential risks in the IT supply chain and develop mitigation strategies to ensure business continuity.
• Stay informed of industry changes, regulatory requirements, and emerging technologies that may impact the IT category.
• Develop and maintain contingency plans to address supply chain disruptions or changes in technology.
• Define and manage the implementation of effective contract management practices, supplier due diligence and supplier risk management.

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Utilize data analytics to drive informed decision-making, optimize category performance, and support strategic initiatives.
• Prepare regular reports on category performance, supplier performance, and cost-saving initiatives for senior management.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and track progress against targets.
• Drive a culture of data led decision making and procurement automation.

• Proven experience in IT procurement, category management, or strategic sourcing, with a focus on global operations within a Blue Chip FTSE / Fortune 500 organisation.
• Proven track record of managing multi-million pound IT procurement projects and achieving cost savings.

Technical Knowledge:

• Deep understanding of IT products and services, including software licensing, hardware procurement, cloud solutions, and telecom.
• Knowledge of emerging technologies and their potential impact on procurement strategies.
• Negotiation and Contract Management:
• Strong negotiation skills with the ability to secure favorable terms and conditions from suppliers.
• Experience in contract management, including drafting, reviewing, and negotiating complex IT contracts.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills:

• Ability to analyze complex data sets, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to identifying and addressing challenges.

Leadership and Collaboration:

• Proven ability to work with cross-functional teams and collaborate effectively with stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Strong ability to influence and drive change in a global, matrixed environment., * Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Information Technology, or a related field.
• MBA or equivalent advanced degree is preferred.
• Professional certifications such as CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management) or PMP (Project Management Professional) are desirable.

Smiths Group designs, manufactures and delivers smarter engineering solutions for mission-critical applications, solving some of the world's toughest problems for our customers, our communities and our world. For over 170 years, Smiths Group has been pioneering progress by improving the world through smarter engineering. We serve millions of people every year, to help create a safer, more efficient and better-connected world, across four major global markets: Energy, General Industry, Security & Defence, and Aerospace. Listed on the London Stock Exchange, Smiths employs 14,600 colleagues in over 50+ countries. This pioneering spirit continues to drive us today, underpinned by our powerful culture. Improving our world is what we do, how we think, and how we will continue to use our passion for technology and engineering to tackle our customers biggest challenges today and in the future. We're looking for people with curious minds. Who want responsibility and relish a challenge. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting out, our global scale and focus on growth means we have some great career opportunities for you. There's never been a better time to join Smiths.