At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop global strategies for IT software and applications while managing supplier relationships.
- Company: Join Castrol, a forward-thinking company focused on innovation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to reimagining energy for a sustainable future.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment as part of a global team.
- Qualifications: Experience in IT category management and strong negotiation skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 66150 - 80850 £ per year.
This is a Castrol requisition and the successful candidate will become part of the Castrol ring-fence ahead of the Castrol divestment later in 2026. From the point of the divestment, you will be employed fully by Castrol and no longer be a bp employee.
The IT Software & Applications Global Category Manager will be responsible for developing and executing global category strategies for IT software and applications, driving value, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring effective cost management.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement comprehensive global category strategies for IT software and applications, leveraging market intelligence and business requirements analysis.
- Conduct category spend profiling and cost modelling to identify opportunities for cost optimization and value creation.
- Lead complex negotiations with key software and application suppliers, ensuring favorable terms and conditions.
- Manage supplier performance and cultivate strong, strategic supplier relationships to drive innovation and continuous improvement.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand business needs, translate them into actionable requirements, and ensure alignment with global category strategies.
- Drive value creation and management initiatives across the IT software and applications portfolio.
- Utilize Agility core practices and Agility tools to enhance category management processes and outcomes.
- Stay abreast of digital fluency trends and product and market intelligence within the IT software and applications landscape.
- Ensure compliance with BP's procurement policies and procedures.
Key Requirements
- Proven experience in IT software and applications category management within a global organization.
- Strong business acumen with the ability to analyze complex business requirements and market dynamics.
- Expertise in negotiation planning and preparation, with a track record of successful negotiation outcomes.
- Demonstrated proficiency in supplier performance management and supplier relationship management.
- Experience with Agility core practices and Agility tools.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to perform category spend profiling and cost modelling.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills.
- High level of digital fluency and a keen understanding of current and emerging software and application technologies.
- Proven ability to drive value creation and management initiatives.
About bp: bp is a global energy business with a purpose to reimagine energy for people and our planet. We aim to be a very different kind of energy company by 2030, helping the world reach net zero and improving people’s lives. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. Join bp and become part of the team building our future!
We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform crucial job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.
Travel Requirement: No travel is expected with this role.
Relocation Assistance: This role is not eligible for relocation.
Remote Type: This position is a hybrid of office/remote working.
Skills
- Agility core practices
- Agility tools
- Business Acumen
- Business Requirements Analysis
- Category spend profiling
- Category Strategy
- Cost modelling
- Digital Fluency
- Negotiating
- Negotiation planning and preparation
- Product and market intelligence
- Supplier Performance Management
- Supplier Relationship Management
- Value creation and management
IT Software & Applications Global Category Manager (Castrol) in Pangbourne employer: Oil Authority
Castrol is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have access to extensive development opportunities and a competitive rewards package, including bonuses and flexible benefits. Located in London, the upcoming move to Timber Square will foster a unified team atmosphere, enhancing your experience as you contribute to impactful projects in the Industrial and Commercial Vehicle sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land IT Software & Applications Global Category Manager (Castrol) in Pangbourne
✨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 Oil Authority.
✨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 IT Software & Applications Global Category Manager (Castrol) in Pangbourne
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 Oil Authority:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Oil Authority. 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 Oil Authority.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oil Authority
✨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 Oil Authority!
✨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 Oil Authority. 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 Oil Authority's culture.
