Category Manager - IT Services
Job Title : Category Manager - IT Services
Location : Germany
Company : My client is a leading freight forwarding company dedicated to excellence in procurement and logistics solutions.
Overview : We are embarking on an exciting transformation journey in indirect procurement, and we're seeking a talented Category Manager to lead our efforts in IT Services procurement.
This role is pivotal in driving strategic initiatives, optimizing vendor relationships, and enhancing procurement processes within our organization.
Responsibilities :
Category Strategy Development :
Develop and implement a comprehensive category strategy for IT services procurement, including software, hardware, cloud services, and telecommunications.
Conduct market analysis, identify emerging trends, and leverage insights to optimize procurement processes and drive innovation in IT solutions.
Vendor Management :
Cultivate and maintain strategic partnerships with key IT vendors, negotiating contracts and agreements to ensure quality, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
Evaluate vendor performance and manage vendor relationships to drive continuous improvement and maximize value for the organization.
Procurement Process Optimization :
Streamline procurement processes and procedures related to IT services, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and alignment with business objectives.
Implement best practices and innovative solutions to enhance procurement effectiveness and support the company's digital transformation initiatives.
Cross-functional Collaboration :
Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders, including IT, finance, and operations teams, to align IT procurement strategies with business needs and objectives.
Provide guidance and expertise on IT procurement matters, fostering a culture of collaboration and driving consensus on procurement decisions.
Performance Monitoring and Reporting :
Establish KPIs and performance metrics to track the effectiveness of IT procurement initiatives, monitoring cost savings, vendor performance, and other key indicators.
Prepare regular reports and presentations for senior management, highlighting achievements, identifying opportunities for improvement, and recommending actionable insights.
Qualifications :
- Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Business Administration, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
- Proven experience in IT services procurement, with a strong understanding of software, hardware, and telecommunications sourcing processes.
- Excellent negotiation skills and a track record of driving cost savings and optimizing vendor relationships.
- Solid understanding of IT procurement best practices, contract management, and vendor risk management.
- Strong analytical skills, with the ability to leverage data and insights to inform decision-making and drive strategic initiatives.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across functions and influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Fluency in German and English; additional languages a plus.
Benefits :
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and retirement plans.
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a dynamic and growing organization.
- A supportive and collaborative work environment that values diversity and innovation.