Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead IT procurement strategies and manage vendor relationships to drive business innovation.
- Company: Join a top UK accountancy and business advisory firm known for its dynamic work environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 6% cash allowance, pension contributions, private medical insurance, and more perks.
- Why this job: Be a key player in shaping IT procurement while collaborating with diverse teams and driving sustainability.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in IT category management with strong procurement and vendor management skills required.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence strategic decisions and enhance your career in a supportive team.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Job Description
IT Category Manager
Central London – Hybrid working (3 days on site)
Up to £80,000 DOE + 20% Bonus + LTIP
An established international organisation within the technology sector is seeking an experienced and commercially minded IT Category Manager to oversee strategic sourcing, vendor management, and contract optimisation across its technology spend.
This role offers the opportunity to shape and mature the company’s IT procurement function, working with an annual spend of c£20 million and a diverse supplier base. You’ll play a key role in embedding category management best practices and delivering measurable value through innovation and efficiency.
Key Responsibilities of the IT Category Manager
- Own the end-to-end IT procurement lifecycle, from sourcing and contract negotiation to renewal and supplier performance management
- Develop and execute category strategies that align with business goals and future technology roadmaps
- Lead high-value and complex negotiations with major vendors across hardware, software, cloud, and IT services
- Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders to ensure procurement is a trusted business partner
- Take ownership of new project innovation. Researching and procurement of tech stacks for procurement and supply chain excellence
- Drive supplier-led innovation and process improvement initiatives
- Oversee governance, compliance, and risk management across IT contracts
- Partner with Finance to manage budgeting, forecasting, and spend reporting
- Introduce tools and processes that enhance visibility and control across the IT supply base
About You:
- Proven experience managing IT procurement across multiple categories (hardware, software, cloud, and outsourcing)
- Strong negotiation skills and commercial acumen, with experience managing Tier 1 vendor relationships
- Track record of delivering cost savings and value through strategic category management
- Confident working with senior stakeholders and leading cross-functional initiatives
- In-depth understanding of software licensing and complex contract structures
- Passion for building maturity and driving continuous improvement within procurement
Benefits:
- Salary up to £80,000
- 20% Bonus
- LTIP
- PMI
- Hybrid working
IT Category Manager employer: Procurement Heads
Contact Detail:
Procurement Heads 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 and vendor management. This will not only help you understand the landscape but also allow you to speak confidently about how you can contribute to our strategic goals during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the procurement field, especially those who have experience in IT category management. Engaging with industry peers can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals that could enhance your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed vendor relationships and driven cost-effective negotiations in your previous roles. Real-life scenarios will demonstrate your expertise and problem-solving skills effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your understanding of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles in procurement. Highlighting your commitment to these values can set you apart as a candidate who aligns with our company's priorities and culture.
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 IT category management. Focus on your achievements in strategic sourcing, vendor management, and collaboration with stakeholders.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of procurement processes and your ability to drive cost-effective negotiations. Mention specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your skills.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, emphasise your leadership, stakeholder management, and communication skills. These are crucial for the role and should be evident in your written materials.
Showcase Industry Knowledge: Demonstrate your knowledge of IT industry trends and vendor offerings in your application. This will show that you are well-informed and ready to contribute to the company's goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at Procurement Heads
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
As an IT Category Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to think strategically. Prepare examples of how you've developed and implemented category plans in the past, and be ready to discuss how you align procurement strategies with business goals.
✨Know Your Vendors
Familiarise yourself with key vendors in the IT space, including their offerings and market positions. Being able to discuss specific vendor relationships and how you've managed them will show your depth of knowledge and experience in vendor management.
✨Highlight Your Negotiation Skills
Negotiation is a crucial part of this role. Be prepared to share examples of successful negotiations you've led, focusing on how you achieved cost savings while ensuring compliance with procurement policies.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Collaboration
Collaboration with various departments is essential. Think of instances where you've worked with stakeholders from different areas, such as IT, HR, or Finance, to achieve common goals. Highlight your communication skills and ability to act as a trusted advisor.
