At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global software procurement strategy and drive innovation in AI technologies.
- Company: Join Smith+Nephew, a leader in tech that enhances lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous bonuses, and health perks.
- Other info: Be part of a community that values inclusion and continuous growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of procurement and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in software procurement and strong leadership skills.
Life. Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living.
Join Smith+Nephew's Global Indirect Procurement organisation as the Global Category Leader - Digital, Software & AI Procurement, leading one of the company's most strategic spend portfolios at a time of unprecedented technology and AI-driven change.
This role is responsible for defining and executing Smith+Nephew's global software procurement strategy across enterprise applications, SaaS, digital platforms and emerging AI-enabled technologies. You will act as a trusted commercial partner to IT, Digital and business leaders, helping the organisation maximise value from software investments while balancing innovation, risk, governance and speed.
This is not a traditional sourcing role. We are looking for a strategic category leader who can shape supplier strategy, influence technology investment decisions, drive commercial value, build organisational capability and position Procurement as a strategic enabler of Smith+Nephew's RISE ambition. In addition to leading the Software category, the role will act as Procurement's AI Champion, helping category teams navigate the commercial, contractual, governance and risk implications of AI as it becomes increasingly embedded within products, services and supplier solutions across the enterprise.
As an M2 leader, you will lead through others—coaching and developing category managers, setting high standards for execution, and creating the conditions for sustained performance, innovation and continuous improvement.
Category Strategy & Value Creation
- Define and execute the global software category strategy, aligned to business priorities, digital transformation objectives and the RISE strategy.
- Build and manage a multi-year value pipeline across cost optimisation, software rationalisation, demand management, risk reduction and innovation.
- Use market intelligence, supplier insights and benchmarking to shape strategic decisions and identify new opportunities.
- Act as Procurement's AI Champion for AI-enabled software and emerging technologies, providing leadership, guidance and governance support to category teams as AI becomes increasingly embedded within supplier solutions, products and services across the enterprise.
Strategic Business Partnering
- Serve as a trusted commercial advisor to IT, Digital, Data & Analytics, Cybersecurity, Finance, Legal and business stakeholders.
- Influence software investment decisions through insight, structured challenge and commercial expertise.
- Ensure Procurement is engaged early in planning and technology decision-making processes.
- Identify and execute initiatives for cross-category IT-related optimisation and consolidation.
Commercial Excellence & Supplier Leadership
- Lead complex negotiations with strategic software suppliers and oversee major commercial agreements.
- Drive effective supplier relationship management to improve performance, innovation, risk management and business outcomes.
- Establish commercial approaches that balance flexibility, scalability, value delivery and enterprise risk.
AI, Digital & Software Governance
- Help shape Smith+Nephew's approach to procuring and managing AI-enabled software and emerging technologies.
- Ensure appropriate governance around software licensing, data rights, AI-related contractual considerations, cybersecurity and compliance requirements.
- Promote data-driven decision-making and adoption of AI-enabled procurement tools and ways of working.
People Leadership & Capability Building
- Lead, coach and develop a high-performing software procurement team.
- Build capability in category management, stakeholder engagement, negotiation, commercial strategy and AI-enabled procurement.
- Foster a culture of accountability, curiosity, continuous improvement and collaboration.
- Drive AI capability development across the wider procurement organisation through coaching, training, knowledge sharing and practical application of AI-enabled procurement techniques.
- Support category teams in assessing the impact of AI on supplier markets, commercial models, contracting approaches, governance requirements, and risk considerations within their respective categories.
- Champion digital, data and AI fluency across the procurement organisation, fostering communities of practice and promoting the sharing emerging market insights, lessons learned and best practices
What will you need to be succesful?
- Significant experience in software procurement, technology sourcing, commercial management or related leadership roles.
- Demonstrated success developing and executing category strategies that deliver measurable business value.
- Experience leading complex software negotiations and supplier relationships at a regional or global level.
- Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence senior leaders and operate effectively in matrix environments.
- Experience leading and developing teams, with a track record of building capability and improving performance.
- Knowledge of AI-enabled software, data governance, responsible AI principles, and evolving software commercial models.
- An understanding of AI, emerging digital technologies and their impact on procurement, sourcing, and supplier management.
- Experience developing governance, risk management or compliance approaches for technology-enabled suppliers and third-party services.
- Demonstrated ability to influence senior stakeholders on digital transformation, AI adoption, and responsible AI practices.
- Experience working collaboratively with IT, Legal, Cyber Security, Privacy and Compliance functions.
Preferred Experience
- Deep understanding of enterprise software, SaaS, licensing models, software asset optimisation and supplier ecosystems.
- Experience supporting digital transformation, technology modernisation or AI-related initiatives.
- Experience within a complex, global and highly regulated environment.
- People leadership and development experience.
What Success Looks Like
- Delivery of Finance-validated value across the software portfolio.
- Strong strategic partnerships with IT and business stakeholders.
- Improved visibility, governance and optimisation of software investments.
- High-performing supplier relationships that drive innovation and business outcomes.
- Increased adoption of data-driven and AI-enabled procurement practices.
- A capable, engaged and future-ready software procurement team.
- Measurable improvement in procurement capability and confidence in applying AI-enabled tools, technologies and ways of working.
- Effective governance and risk management of AI-enabled suppliers and third-party solutions.
- Strong cross-functional alignment on AI supplier management, controls and responsible AI standards.
- Comfortable in championing and challenging both stakeholders and suppliers alike across a range of initiatives.
- Strong leadership and people-development skills across the software category and broader IT procurement team.
You. Unlimited.
We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our Strongest investments are in our people and patients we serve.
Inclusion and Belonging: Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving on Inclusion and Belonging, Learn more about our Employee Inclusion Groups on our website (www.smith-nephew.com)
Your Future: Generous annual bonus and pension Schemes, Save As You Earn share options.
Work/Life Balance: Flexible Vacation and Time Off, Paid Holidays and Paid Volunteering Hours, so we can give back to our communities!
Your Wellbeing: Private Health and Dental plans, Healthcare Cash Plans, Income Protection, Life Assurance and much more.
Flexibility: Hybrid Working Model (For most professional roles).
Training: Hands On, Team Customised, Mentorship.
Extra Perks: Discounts on Gyms and fitness clubs, Salary Sacrifice Bicycle and Car Schemes and many other Employee discounts.
Stay connected by joining our Talent Community.
We're more than just a company - we're a community! Follow us on LinkedIn to see how we support and empower our employees and patients every day.
Check us out on Glassdoor for a glimpse behind the scenes and a sneak peek into You. Unlimited., life, culture, and benefits at S+N.
Explore our website and learn more about our mission, our team, and the opportunities we offer.
Stay connected by joining our Talent Community.
We're more than just a company - we're a community! Follow us on LinkedIn to see how we support and empower our employees and patients every day.
Check us out on Glassdoor for a glimpse behind the scenes and a sneak peek into You. Unlimited., life, culture, and benefits at S+N.
Explore our website and learn more about our mission, our team, and the opportunities we offer.
Global Category Leader, IT Software in Watford employer: Smith & Nephew
At Smith+Nephew, we are committed to fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, making us an exceptional employer for the Global Category Leader in IT Software. Our employees benefit from generous bonuses, flexible working arrangements, and comprehensive health plans, all while being part of a community that values inclusion and personal growth. With opportunities for mentorship and professional development, you will thrive in an environment that champions your success and well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Global Category Leader, IT Software in Watford
✨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 Smith & Nephew.
✨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 Global Category Leader, IT Software in Watford
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 Smith & Nephew:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Smith & Nephew. 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 Smith & Nephew.
How to prepare for a job interview at Smith & Nephew
✨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 Smith & Nephew!
✨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 Smith & Nephew. 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 Smith & Nephew's culture.
