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- Tasks: Lead sourcing activities and manage key supplier relationships in IT services.
- Company: Smith+Nephew crafts innovative technology to enhance lives, focusing on inclusion and diversity.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous bonuses, health plans, and discounts on fitness memberships.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven team that values innovation and community impact while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in business or related field; experience in IT software procurement required.
- Other info: Hybrid working model available; mentorship and training tailored for your growth.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
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Category Manager, Software and IT Services
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Client:
Smith+Nephew
Location:
United Kingdom
Job Category:
Other
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EU work permit required:
Yes
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Job Reference:
13a0d02e76a6
Job Views:
5
Posted:
19.08.2025
Expiry Date:
03.10.2025
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Job Description:
Life Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew, we craft and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living!
In the role of Category Manager for Software and IT Services, your expertise will be crucial in planning and leading important projects. You will contribute to the strength and innovation of our technological infrastructure.
This role will handle expenditure, engage with partners and suppliers, and support the development of our category strategy. Your proactive approach will help define specifications, manage demand, and develop supplier performance and innovation. You will be instrumental in building relationships that propel our mission forward.
Sound like you? Get in touch!
What will you be doing?
Leading sourcing activities, handling key relationships, and coordinating the creation, application, and review of contracts.
Contributing to the development and execution of the strategy for Software and IT Services, ensuring alignment with business goals and partner approval.
Collecting and analysing data on suppliers, market trends, and internal business needs to advise category strategies and decision-making.
Identifying and mitigating supplier risks, resolving performance issues, and ensuring compliance with procurement policies and procedures.
Communicating strategies and negotiated contracts to relevant partners, ensuring consistent application and understanding.
Supporting the innovation agenda by collaborating with strategic suppliers and driving continuous improvement initiatives within the Category.
What will you need to be successful?
You\’ll need Bachelor\’s degree or equivalent in business administration, finance, law, or a related scientific or technical field.
You should have shown experience in IT software procurement, along with a strong background in running sophisticated software projects, negotiating with IT vendors, and preparing and delivering presentations.
Location: Watford, United Kingdom or Wrocław, Poland
You. Unlimited
165 years of groundbreaking innovation requires a steadfast focus on what’s next. We’re passionate about you. You’re what’s next…
Inclusion, Diversity and Equity: Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Growing on Diversity, Learn more about our Employee Inclusion Groups on our website
Your Future: Generous annual bonus and pension Schemes, Save As You Earn share options.
Work/Life Balance: Flexible Vacation and Time Off, Paid Holidays and Paid Volunteering Hours, so we can give back to our communities!
Your Wellbeing: Private Health and Dental plans, Healthcare Cash Plans, Income Protection, Life Assurance and much more.
Extra Perks: Discounts on Gyms and fitness clubs, Salary Sacrifice Bicycle and Car Schemes and many other Employee discounts.
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Category Manager, Software and IT Services employer: Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
Contact Detail:
Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager, Software and IT Services
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in software procurement and IT services. Understanding current market dynamics will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your proactive approach to category management.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of IT procurement. Engaging with industry peers can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals, which can significantly boost your chances of landing the job.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships and driven innovation in past roles. Being able to articulate your experience clearly will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Smith+Nephew's recent projects and initiatives in technology. Showing that you understand their mission and how you can contribute will make a strong impression during your discussions with them.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager, Software and IT Services
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in IT software procurement and project management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead sourcing activities and manage supplier relationships.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the role and how your skills align with the company's mission. Mention your proactive approach and any successful projects you've led in the past.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, emphasise skills such as data analysis, negotiation with IT vendors, and contract management. These are crucial for the Category Manager position and should be clearly articulated.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Industry: Demonstrate your understanding of market trends and supplier risks in the software and IT services sector. This will show that you are well-prepared to contribute to the development of category strategies.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Category Manager for Software and IT Services. Familiarise yourself with key terms like sourcing activities, supplier performance, and category strategy to demonstrate your knowledge during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in IT software procurement and managing software projects. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've successfully negotiated with vendors and handled complex contracts.
✨Data-Driven Decision Making
Since the role involves collecting and analysing data on suppliers and market trends, be prepared to talk about how you've used data to inform your decisions in past roles. Highlight any tools or methodologies you’ve employed to analyse supplier performance.
✨Emphasise Relationship Building
Building strong relationships is crucial in this role. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with partners or suppliers, and be ready to discuss how you approach relationship management to drive innovation and continuous improvement.
