At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage IT procurement, build stakeholder relationships, and support project management.
- Company: Join a leading financial services firm known for its ambition and growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive perks, potential remote work, and a dynamic team environment.
- Why this job: Gain diverse experience in a fast-paced setting while making a real impact.
- Qualifications: 3-5 years in IT procurement; CIPS qualification preferred.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative team focused on innovation and supplier performance.
Portfolio Procurement has been engaged by our leading financial services client to recruit for an IT Category Manager. Be one of the first applicants, read the complete overview of the role below, then send your application for consideration.
The role:
As IT Procurement Manager you will be a key part of the Procurement Team. This position is wide ranging and will involve partnering with key stakeholders of all levels of seniority across the company. As part of an ambitious and acquisitive organisation, you will be exposed to a range of responsibilities with genuine depth and variety.
Key accountabilities:
- As a key member of the Group Procurement Team, you will work to support IT and the businesses procurement needs.
- You will need to build strong relationships with key stakeholders across the UK and beyond, to understand the business' needs, ensuring issues are understood and accounted for in strategy development and during project delivery.
- You will support in building the IT Procurement plan including proactive identification of savings/value opportunities, in support of wider organisation objectives and priorities.
- Support IT Business Partner on larger, complex projects providing project management and analytics support.
- Contract negotiations and drafting.
- Support with contract renewal monitoring, strategy preparation and negotiation of group standards, tools and working practices to improve supplier performance management.
- Supports the business to design and implements appropriate supplier management plan and supports reviews for critical/strategic suppliers.
Skills and experience required:
- Previous IT and Procurement sourcing experience (ideally 3-5 years)
- CIPS or part qualified with a desire to complete to MCIPS level would be ideal
- Strong commercial and analytical experience
- Ability to take control of a project and see through to completion
IT Category Manager employer: Portfolio Procurement
Contact Detail:
Portfolio Procurement Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land IT Category Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the IT procurement field. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues and stakeholders. Building these connections can give you insights into the company culture and expectations.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in IT procurement and supplier management. Being knowledgeable about current technologies and procurement strategies will help you stand out during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your previous project management experiences. Highlight how you've successfully managed complex projects and built relationships with stakeholders, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s values and recent projects. Understanding their goals and challenges will allow you to tailor your conversations and demonstrate how you can contribute to their success as an IT Category Manager.
We think you need these skills to ace IT Category Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the IT Category Manager position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application effectively.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your previous IT and procurement sourcing experience. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Skills: Demonstrate your commercial and analytical skills in your application. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed projects or negotiated contracts in the past, as these are crucial for the role.
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Craft a personalised cover letter that addresses the specific needs of the company. Mention your desire to complete your CIPS qualification and how your background aligns with their objectives and priorities.
How to prepare for a job interview at Portfolio Procurement
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of an IT Category Manager. Familiarise yourself with procurement processes, contract negotiations, and supplier management strategies. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and how your experience aligns with the role.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Since the role requires strong commercial and analytical experience, be prepared to discuss specific examples where you've used data to drive decisions or improve processes. Highlight any tools or methodologies you've employed in past projects.
✨Build Rapport with Stakeholders
As you'll be working closely with key stakeholders, it's essential to show your interpersonal skills during the interview. Share experiences where you've successfully built relationships and collaborated with various teams to achieve common goals.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and project management skills. Think of examples from your previous roles where you've managed complex projects or resolved conflicts, and be ready to explain your thought process.