Category Manager - IT

Category Manager - IT

Full-Time 55000 - 65000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Beaumont Select

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead IT category management and drive value through strategic sourcing initiatives.
  • Company: Join a forward-thinking procurement team in a dynamic hybrid work environment.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact by managing key IT suppliers and enhancing contract value.
  • Qualifications: Experience in strategic sourcing and strong negotiation skills required.
  • Other info: Ideal for self-starters looking to thrive in a multi-disciplinary team.

The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.

Our client is looking for a strategic and innovative professional to join their Procurement team, focusing on IT Category Management. UCR, PCR or PA23 experience preferred.

You will lead and manage end‑to‑end category plans, identifying initiatives that maximise value and minimise commercial risk. You will be responsible for a portfolio of IT suppliers, ensuring continuous improvement and added value throughout the contract lifecycle. Your extensive IT category expertise and market insight will support internal stakeholders and inform sourcing strategies. You will also lead sourcing initiatives, including tenders and negotiations, ensuring value delivery and regulatory compliance.

You will have:

  • Ability to analyse and present complex commercial/contractual data and concepts to a wide range of stakeholders.
  • Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple workstreams.
  • Solid negotiation, influencing and resolution skills.
  • Outstanding communication skills and customer service ethic with strong stakeholder engagement capabilities.
  • Self‑starter – resilient and tenacious under pressure and willingness to develop skills and experience.
  • Experience of strategic sourcing in a multi‑stakeholder environment and working within multi‑disciplinary teams.
  • Relevant transferable business and/or supply chain knowledge.
  • Track record in delivering against stretching targets.

Desirable:

  • Excellent proven commercial and contractual acumen.
  • Knowledge and experience of regulated procurement procedures (either UCR, PCR or PA23).
  • CIPS or MCIPS qualified; or alternative qualifications in transferable expertise.
  • Project management experience or qualifications.

Hybrid working with 3 days a week on site.

Apply Now: Take the next step in your career with this exciting Category Manager role. Apply via the site or contact Karen Laker on +44 (0)1403 248448.

Category Manager - IT employer: Beaumont Select

Join a forward-thinking organisation that values innovation and strategic thinking in the heart of the South East. As a Category Manager in IT, you will thrive in a hybrid work environment that promotes collaboration and professional growth, while enjoying competitive remuneration and a supportive culture that encourages continuous improvement and development. With a focus on maximising value and minimising risk, this role offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact within a dynamic procurement team.
Beaumont Select

Contact Detail:

Beaumont Select Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Category Manager - IT

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the IT procurement space. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its suppliers. We want you to be able to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs. Think about specific examples from your past roles that showcase your negotiation and stakeholder engagement skills.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice your pitch! We recommend rehearsing how you’ll present your commercial acumen and strategic sourcing experience. Make sure you can clearly articulate how you’ve maximised value and minimised risk in previous roles.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for candidates who are self-starters and resilient under pressure, just like you!

We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager - IT

IT Category Management
UCR, PCR or PA23 experience
End-to-end category planning
Value maximisation
Commercial risk minimisation
Supplier management
Continuous improvement
Sourcing strategies
Tendering and negotiation
Regulatory compliance
Data analysis and presentation
Organisational skills
Negotiation and influencing skills
Stakeholder engagement
Strategic sourcing

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your IT category expertise and any relevant experience with UCR, PCR, or PA23. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your negotiation skills and stakeholder engagement. We love a good story that showcases your achievements!

Showcase Your Analytical Skills: Since you'll be analysing complex data, make sure to mention any relevant tools or methods you've used in the past. We appreciate candidates who can present data clearly and effectively, so don’t hold back on your analytical prowess!

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you’re keen to join our team at StudySmarter!

How to prepare for a job interview at Beaumont Select

✨Know Your Category Inside Out

Before the interview, dive deep into the IT category management landscape. Familiarise yourself with current trends, key suppliers, and any recent changes in regulations like UCR, PCR, or PA23. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also help you articulate how you can add value to their procurement team.

✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills

Prepare specific examples of successful negotiations you've led in the past. Highlight your approach to resolving conflicts and influencing stakeholders. Being able to discuss real-life scenarios where you maximised value while minimising risk will demonstrate your capability as a strategic Category Manager.

✨Demonstrate Strong Analytical Skills

Be ready to discuss how you've analysed complex commercial data in previous roles. Bring along examples of reports or presentations you've created that showcase your ability to simplify intricate information for diverse stakeholders. This will show your potential employer that you can handle the analytical demands of the role.

✨Engage with Enthusiasm

During the interview, express your passion for IT procurement and your eagerness to contribute to their team. Ask insightful questions about their current challenges and future goals. This not only shows your interest but also positions you as a proactive candidate who is genuinely invested in their success.

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