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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage IT procurement, negotiate contracts, and drive cost-saving strategies.
- Company: Join a dynamic team in Derby focused on strategic procurement excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, and 32 days holiday plus perks.
- Why this job: Be part of a performance-driven culture that values efficiency and innovation.
- Qualifications: CIPS qualification preferred; strong procurement and negotiation skills required.
- Other info: Hybrid work model with opportunities for career development and training.
The predicted salary is between 35800 - 41800 £ per year.
Location: Derby (Hybrid – 3 days office, 2 days home)
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £41,800 – £52,250 (Depending on Experience)
Are you a performance-driven procurement professional with a track record of delivering cost savings, driving efficiency, and maximising value in procurement?
The Role:
As an IT Category Manager, you will be responsible for managing IT procurement, including hardware, software, telecommunications, hosting, networking, and professional services. You will lead tendering processes, negotiate contracts, and ensure maximum value is delivered. Working closely with key stakeholders across multiple business functions, you will provide strategic procurement support while ensuring compliance with policies and regulations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop procurement strategies for sourcing and implementing third-party interactions in line with procurement policies
- Lead supplier selection and competitive tendering processes
- Create and manage contractual agreements to ensure commercial value
- Advise stakeholders on best practices to optimise cost and quality
- Approve purchase orders and ensure compliance with financial procedures
- Oversee supplier performance and contract management
- Deliver procurement KPIs and identify cost-saving opportunities
- Maintain contract records and governance to ensure compliance
About You:
- CIPS qualification or working towards it.
- Previous experience working in the public sector is highly desirable.
- Performance driven.
- Strong experience in procurement, contract negotiation, and supplier management.
- Ability to analyse complex spend data and develop cost-effective strategies.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Strong knowledge of procurement systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to lead procurement projects independently and manage multiple deadlines.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary.
- Defined benefit pension scheme.
- 32 days’ holiday (rising to 34 after two years).
- Flexible working options.
- Free and discounted travel benefits.
- Career development and training opportunities.
- Access to a range of employee discounts and benefits.
If you'd like to know more about this position, just hit the apply button, and I’ll be in touch.
IT Category Manager employer: Distinct
Contact Detail:
Distinct Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land IT Category Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in IT procurement. Understanding current technologies and market dynamics will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the procurement field, especially those with experience in the public sector. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to build connections that could provide insights or referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've delivered cost savings and improved efficiency in previous roles. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Research StudySmarter's values and culture. Tailoring your conversation to align with our mission and demonstrating how you can contribute to our goals will make a strong impression during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace IT Category Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement, contract negotiation, and supplier management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to deliver cost savings and drive efficiency.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that addresses the key responsibilities of the IT Category Manager role. Emphasise your strategic procurement skills and how you can add value to the company. Mention your CIPS qualification or progress towards it.
Showcase Your Achievements: In both your CV and cover letter, include quantifiable achievements related to procurement KPIs and cost-saving initiatives. This will help illustrate your performance-driven approach and ability to manage multiple deadlines.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in procurement roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Distinct
✨Showcase Your Procurement Expertise
Make sure to highlight your experience in procurement, especially in IT. Be prepared to discuss specific examples where you've successfully delivered cost savings or improved efficiency in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Management Skills
Since the role involves working closely with various stakeholders, be ready to share instances where you've effectively communicated and collaborated with different teams. This will show your ability to manage relationships and drive results.
✨Prepare for Contract Negotiation Scenarios
Expect questions about contract negotiation. Prepare to discuss your approach to negotiating terms and how you've ensured maximum value in past agreements. This will demonstrate your strategic thinking and negotiation skills.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Procurement Policies
Research common procurement policies and regulations relevant to the public sector. Being knowledgeable about compliance will show that you understand the importance of governance in procurement processes.
