Procurement Category Manager - Services


Chicago
Negotiable
PR/575340_1768489248
Procurement Category Manager - Services

Procurement Category Manager - Services

Overview

The Procurement Category Manager for Services is responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies across a range of service categories, including systems integration partners, professional services, and full lifecycle field services. This role requires strong strategic thinking, negotiation expertise, and experience driving cost savings while supporting broader business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

  • Category Strategy: Create and implement sourcing strategies that support operational and financial goals.
  • Market & Supplier Analysis: Research market trends, assess supplier capabilities, and identify new sourcing opportunities.
  • Competitive Bidding & Negotiation: Lead bid processes, develop Statements of Work, negotiate performance-based contracts, and reduce total cost of ownership.
  • Cost Optimization: Identify and execute cost reduction initiatives through negotiation, process improvements, and alternative sourcing models.
  • Supplier Management: Build and manage relationships with key service providers and oversee vendor performance.
  • Risk Management: Identify risks such as deployment delays or supplier financial instability and implement mitigation strategies.
  • Stakeholder Collaboration: Partner with internal teams-including sales, engineering, project management, and legal-to align sourcing strategies with business needs.
  • Contract Oversight: Manage contract drafting, negotiation, compliance, and lifecycle tracking.
  • Reporting & Analytics: Maintain accurate procurement data, develop reports, and support data-driven decision-making.
  • Process Improvement: Streamline procurement processes and enhance operational efficiency.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field.
  • 8+ years of procurement or strategic sourcing experience.
  • Demonstrated success managing sourcing for large-scale service deployments.
  • Proven ability to drive significant cost reductions.
  • Strong analytical, negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
  • Knowledge of procurement best practices and contract law.
  • Experience with ERP and e-sourcing systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
  • Ability to manage multiple projects independently.

Key Skills

  • Strategic Sourcing & Category Management
  • Contract Negotiation
  • Cost Reduction & Value Engineering
  • Supplier Relationship Management
  • Market & Data Analysis
  • Risk & Stakeholder Management
  • ERP System Proficiency

Additional Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in finance or a similar discipline (minimum requirement).
  • Authorization to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

Benefits

Includes incentive bonus eligibility, medical/dental/vision coverage, retirement plan with match, paid holidays, generous PTO, employee stock purchase plan, and family leave options.

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.