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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage IT categories, focusing on Cloud and Networks while supporting tech suppliers.
- Company: Join a dynamic organisation undergoing significant changes and large projects.
- Benefits: Gain valuable IT experience and develop expertise in Cloud technologies.
- Why this job: Be part of a pivotal role that drives innovation and value in technology procurement.
- Qualifications: Experience in Professional Services, IT & Digital, with strong negotiation skills required.
- Other info: Ideal for those looking to challenge themselves and promote new tech solutions.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
This role will suit a Procurement professional looking to gain more IT experience and develop into an SME in Cloud technologies. It is a varied and interesting role at a pivotal time for the organization, with many large projects and changes underway. Ideal background includes experience in Professional Services, IT & Digital, with a good understanding of software licenses.
The primary focus will be on CLOUD (AWS) and Networks, while also supporting other Tech categories and suppliers.
Responsibilities include:- Category Management: Establish and maintain category plans aligned with business and technology strategies to create value, ensure resilience, manage risks, and meet technology roadmaps and demand commitments.
- Sourcing: Execute sourcing strategies based on category plans, lead end-to-end sourcing activities including market assessments and complex negotiations, and support supplier onboarding through due diligence to meet company standards and policies. Ensure contracts deliver value, meet savings targets, and protect against price rises.
- Supplier Management: Develop a governance framework to manage supplier relationships, measure performance and risk, and ensure ongoing value and compliance throughout the contract lifecycle, safeguarding the Group's brand.
- Experience working with senior stakeholders to develop category plans, build credibility, and drive cost savings, supplier resilience, and governance.
- Excellent negotiation and problem-solving skills, with experience managing high-value, complex projects.
- Confidence to challenge business units constructively and promote new ways of working, technology, and processes to achieve sustainable savings and value.
Contact Detail:
1st Executive Ltd Recruiting Team
peter.aplin@1st-executive.com
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager, IT
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the IT procurement space, especially those who have experience with cloud technologies like AWS. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific software licenses relevant to cloud services and networks. Understanding these will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with senior stakeholders and how you've successfully developed category plans in the past. Highlight any examples where you drove cost savings or improved supplier relationships.
✨Tip Number 4
Research StudySmarter's current projects and initiatives related to IT and cloud technologies. Being informed about our goals will help you align your skills and experiences with what we are looking for in a Category Manager.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager, IT
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement, IT, and digital services. Emphasise your understanding of software licenses and any specific experience with cloud technologies like AWS.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, explain why you are interested in the Category Manager role and how your background aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Mention your negotiation skills and experience managing complex projects.
Showcase Relevant Achievements: Include specific examples of past achievements that demonstrate your ability to develop category plans, drive cost savings, and manage supplier relationships effectively. Use metrics where possible to quantify your success.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at 1st Executive Ltd
✨Research the Company and Role
Before the interview, make sure to thoroughly research the company and the specific role of Category Manager in IT. Understand their current projects, especially in Cloud technologies, and be prepared to discuss how your background aligns with their needs.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Given the focus on Cloud (AWS) and Networks, expect technical questions related to these areas. Brush up on your knowledge of software licenses and procurement strategies in IT to demonstrate your expertise and confidence.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Be ready to provide examples of past negotiations you've led, particularly in high-value or complex projects. Highlight your problem-solving skills and how you've successfully managed supplier relationships to drive cost savings.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Engagement
Since the role involves working with senior stakeholders, prepare to discuss how you've built credibility and engaged with different business units in the past. Share specific instances where you challenged the status quo to promote new processes or technologies.
