Procurement Category Manager

We're supporting one of our clients in the Telecommunications space on their search for a Procurement Category Manager to serve as a key contributor in shaping sourcing strategies, managing supplier relationships, and guiding major hardware‑related purchasing initiatives. This person will help drive cost optimization, strengthen supplier partnerships, and support the business with forward‑thinking procurement solutions. The role requires strong communication skills, cross‑functional collaboration, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead competitive sourcing efforts, long-term agreement development, and formal bid/RFx processes.
• Analyze spend trends and market conditions to identify opportunities for savings, efficiency, and supplier innovation.
• Develop and execute sourcing strategies for hardware categories across the organization.
• Partner with internal stakeholders early in the planning process to understand business needs and influence supplier decisions.
• Drive commercial negotiations, including pricing, contract terms, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Create and maintain supplier performance metrics, scorecards, and governance routines.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives, refining processes that increase efficiency and maximize purchasing leverage.
• Manage contract renewals and ensure favorable financial and service outcomes through competitive analysis.
• Build strategic supplier relationships, ensuring the right level of engagement to support business priorities.
• Provide subject matter expertise in procurement best practices and contract strategy.
• Prepare presentations and communicate sourcing recommendations to senior leadership.
• Conduct periodic supplier reviews and relationship management activities.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of progressive procurement experience; hardware or technology‑related categories highly preferred.
• Strong background in contract negotiation, supplier management, and cost‑reduction strategy.
• Experience structuring and negotiating complex supplier agreements.
• Ability to work independently on commercial and contractual matters with limited legal support.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills, including experience presenting to senior leadership.
• Professional certifications (CPSM, MCIPS, CPM, PMP) are a plus but not required.
• Ability to travel up to 25% as business needs dictate.