At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global procurement strategies in infrastructure, cloud, and cybersecurity.
- Company: Smith+Nephew, a tech-driven company focused on innovation and growth.
- Benefits: Generous bonuses, flexible vacation, health plans, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Join a community committed to inclusion, wellbeing, and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on technology procurement and drive transformation globally.
- Qualifications: Experience in technology procurement and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
At Smith+Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living. Technology is at the heart of how Smith+Nephew delivers innovation, enables growth and supports colleagues and customers around the world. We're building the next generation of procurement leadership, combining commercial excellence, digital innovation and AI-enabled decision making to create sustainable value across a global organisation.
As Global Category Leader, Infrastructure, Cloud & Security Procurement, you'll lead one of our most strategically important technology portfolios, spanning cloud, infrastructure, cybersecurity, workplace technology and connectivity. Partnering with senior technology and cybersecurity leaders, you'll influence major investment decisions, shape future-focused supplier strategies and drive procurement transformation on a global scale.
From hyperscaler partnerships and cloud transformation to cybersecurity and AI-enabled procurement, you'll play a key role in building a resilient, secure and digitally enabled enterprise. In return, you'll gain exposure to complex global initiatives, a diverse international stakeholder network, strategic leadership opportunities and the chance to make a lasting commercial impact across the business.
What will you be doing?
As Global Category Leader, Infrastructure, Cloud & Security Procurement, you will lead the development and execution of category strategies across infrastructure, cloud, networks, telecommunications, cybersecurity, workplace technology and related services. Working closely with Infrastructure & Operations, Cloud & Platforms, Digital Workplace, Network, Mobility and Cybersecurity leaders, you'll help shape sourcing decisions, supplier strategies and commercial models that support Smith+Nephew's digital ambitions.
You'll lead strategic supplier relationships across hyperscalers, infrastructure providers, telecommunications partners, managed service providers and cybersecurity vendors, helping to improve performance, innovation, resilience and commercial outcomes. Acting as a trusted commercial advisor, you'll influence technology investment decisions, challenge demand constructively and help stakeholders balance cost, security, risk and business priorities.
As a people leader, you'll coach and develop Category Managers, build capability across the team and create a culture of accountability, curiosity and continuous improvement. You'll also champion the use of AI enabled tools, advanced analytics and automation to enhance category planning, supplier intelligence and procurement effectiveness.
What will you need to be successful?
Success in this role comes from combining strategic procurement expertise with a strong understanding of modern technology ecosystems and the ability to influence across a complex global organisation. You'll be comfortable engaging with senior stakeholders, shaping business decisions and translating technology roadmaps into effective supplier and category strategies.
- Significant experience leading technology procurement categories across infrastructure, cloud, networks, cybersecurity or workplace technology environments.
- A proven track record of developing and executing global category strategies that deliver measurable value, innovation and business transformation.
- Strong experience leading complex sourcing initiatives, strategic supplier relationships and commercial negotiations.
- Proven leadership experience with the ability to develop high performing teams and build trusted relationships across technology, finance, legal and business functions.
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.
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.
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!
Global Category Leader - Infrastructure, Cloud & Security Procurement in Watford employer: Smith+Nephew
At Smith+, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that encourages innovation and collaboration. As a Legal Counsel in our Global Commercial Legal team, you will have access to exceptional growth opportunities within the rapidly evolving fields of technology and AI, all while enjoying a supportive environment that values your contributions and promotes work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Global Category Leader - Infrastructure, Cloud & Security Procurement 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 - Infrastructure, Cloud & Security Procurement 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.
