At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic software procurement and negotiate with top global tech vendors.
- Company: Join a leading global financial services and technology organisation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, hybrid working, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with exposure to senior stakeholders and complex supplier relationships.
- Why this job: Make an impact on major tech initiatives and work with industry giants.
- Qualifications: Experience in technology procurement and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 87000 - 87000 £ per year.
A leading global financial services and technology organisation is continuing to invest heavily across its technology and procurement functions as part of a wider transformation programme. Operating across multiple international markets, the business manages a complex technology estate and works with some of the world's largest software providers to support critical business operations.
Procurement is a highly regarded function within the organisation, partnering closely with technology, finance, legal and senior leadership teams to influence strategic investment decisions and deliver commercial value across the business.
Joining the Technology Procurement team, you will take ownership of a strategic software category focused on Technology Infrastructure, covering areas such as databases, middleware and enterprise software solutions. This is a highly visible role, working closely with engineering, architecture, legal, finance and vendor management stakeholders to support major technology initiatives and drive commercial outcomes across a complex supplier portfolio.
You will lead sourcing activity and commercial negotiations with global software vendors, managing high-value agreements, renewals and licensing arrangements while ensuring appropriate commercial and contractual protections are in place. The role will involve partnering closely with legal teams throughout negotiations, reviewing commercial terms and helping stakeholders navigate complex supplier relationships.
Alongside supplier management and sourcing responsibilities, you will act as a trusted commercial advisor across the business, helping shape procurement strategy and supporting long-term technology objectives. You'll engage with senior stakeholders across multiple functions and play a key role in supplier governance, risk management and value delivery.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to work on globally significant agreements with some of the largest technology suppliers in the market, whilst gaining exposure to business-critical programmes and senior decision makers.
What you'll need to succeed:
- Strong experience within Technology Procurement, Software Category Management or Strategic Sourcing, with a demonstrable track record of negotiating complex software agreements and managing strategic supplier relationships.
- Experience working with major software providers such as Oracle, IBM, Microsoft, SAP, Salesforce, Workday, ServiceNow or similar enterprise vendors will be highly beneficial.
- Exposure to software licensing, renewals, contract negotiations and commercial optimisation programmes is particularly relevant.
- Comfortable operating within a large and complex environment, balancing the requirements of multiple stakeholder groups and managing procurement activity that supports organisation-wide objectives.
- Experience partnering closely with legal teams, reviewing commercial contracts and supporting contractual negotiations will also be advantageous.
- Ability to communicate complex commercial situations in a clear, concise and structured manner.
- Confidence in presenting recommendations, influencing stakeholders and articulating the value delivered through previous negotiations and sourcing activity.
- Strong stakeholder engagement skills alongside tangible commercial achievements.
What you'll get in return:
In return, you'll join a globally recognised organisation undertaking significant investment and transformation across its technology landscape. You'll have the opportunity to lead negotiations with some of the world's largest software providers, partner with senior stakeholders across multiple business functions and contribute to strategic technology investment decisions. The role offers a competitive salary, bonus and comprehensive benefits package alongside a hybrid working model of three days per week in the London office. You'll also benefit from strong long-term career development opportunities within a highly regarded procurement function operating on a global scale.
Category Manager - Technology Infrastructure in Vauxhall employer: Hays
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager - Technology Infrastructure in Vauxhall
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like Hays.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager - Technology Infrastructure in Vauxhall
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Hays:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Hays. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like Hays.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at Hays!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at Hays. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into Hays's culture.
