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.
