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Global Category Manager - Software
Location: Northampton
Salary: £90k - £115k + Bonus + Package
Are you an experienced software procurement professional with a passion for driving commercial success and strategic category management? Join a leading blue-chip business, where you will play a pivotal role in optimising software procurement and supplier management to deliver outstanding value.
Summary
As the Global Category Manager - Software, you will lead the software category area to drive value, manage supplier relationships (continuous improvement), and implement category strategy. This role requires a strategic thinker with a depth of experience in software procurement, data-driven decision-making, and strong leadership skills to guide a high-performing team.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the procurement strategy for software across the business, ensuring alignment with business goals.
- Manage key supplier relationships, including negotiations and performance monitoring, to drive commercial benefits.
- Provide expert advice on procurement opportunities and IT procurement best practices.
- Oversee a team of category managers and supplier management professionals, ensuring optimal outcomes for third-party engagements.
- Utilise data analysis to challenge cost drivers and identify improvement opportunities.
- Act as a key liaison between business units and procurement, ensuring clear communication and alignment of strategies.
- Drive compliance with third-party risk management processes and champion supplier diversity initiatives.
Key Skills/Experience:
- Strong expertise in software procurement and category management.
- Proven track record of driving cost efficiencies and commercial opportunities within a procurement function.
- Extensive experience in contract negotiation and supplier relationship management.
- Strong analytical skills to leverage data insights and support decision-making.
- People leadership experience with a focus on performance management and team development.
- Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence at senior levels.
- CIPS qualification (or equivalent) is desirable but not essential.
- Understanding of software licensing models and procurement best practice is key.
