Procurement Category Manager - Software
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Procurement Category Manager - Software to join our team in a hybrid capacity. This role provides critical category expertise in strategic sourcing, software licensing, and supplier management. The ideal candidate possesses strong commercial, contractual, and negotiation experience, along with the ability to deliver innovative, cost‑effective strategies aligned with organizational goals. This position requires exceptional communication capabilities, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work effectively across diverse functional teams.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and execute long‑term sourcing agreements using structured RFx processes.
- Analyze spend data, market conditions, and category trends to identify strategic sourcing opportunities.
- Identify cost‑savings initiatives, process enhancements, and best practices within the software category.
- Develop and maintain collaborative relationships across business units to ensure early engagement in procurement initiatives.
- Lead negotiations involving pricing, commercial terms, and risk mitigation for software‑related contracts.
- Partner with cross‑functional stakeholders to understand business requirements, budgets, and challenges, developing tailored sourcing strategies.
- Support strategic procurement frameworks, including supplier segmentation, scorecarding, and business performance reviews.
- Manage contract renewals and leverage competitive insights to optimize pricing, service levels, and value.
- Build and maintain strategic supplier relationships that support category objectives and long‑term organizational success.
- Recommend and implement process improvements that increase efficiency and maximize spend optimization.
- Provide guidance to internal stakeholders on procurement strategies and business initiatives related to software.
- Engage with senior leadership to support strategic decision‑making.
- Serve as a subject matter expert on complex procurement, legal, and contractual matters.
- Conduct ongoing supplier relationship and performance reviews.
Skills & Qualifications
- Demonstrated experience in budget planning and cost‑reduction strategies.
- Strong negotiation skills, with the ability to manage contracts with limited legal support.
- Minimum of 2+ years of progressive procurement experience, preferably within software or technology categories.
- Experience contributing to complex or large‑scale supplier agreements, including integrated solutions.
- Strong presentation and communication skills, with the ability to engage Director‑ and VP‑level stakeholders.
- Preferred professional certifications may include CPSM, MCIPS, CPM, PMP, or similar credentials.
- Ability to travel up to 25% (with minimal travel generally expected).
Location:
Candidates must be based in the greater Chicago area and available to work on‑site three days per week under a hybrid work model.
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your resume and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organizations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your CV so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customised support on how to optimise your resume to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.