At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead sourcing for IT and indirect categories, driving value and managing supplier relationships.
- Company: Major UK services and infrastructure business with a focus on procurement excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, car allowance, bonus, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Supportive team culture with opportunities for career progression and impact.
- Why this job: Shape IT category strategy in a dynamic environment with real influence.
- Qualifications: Strong indirect procurement experience, especially in IT categories and stakeholder management.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 70000 £ per year.
A major UK services and infrastructure business is looking to hire an IT Category Manager to support the continued development of its procurement function. The business operates across complex, multi-site environments and is investing heavily in procurement capability, supplier management and commercial value delivery.
Although this role will have a strong focus on IT procurement, the business is keen to speak with well-rounded indirect procurement professionals who can bring broader category experience across areas such as technology, professional services, FM, marketing, HR, fleet or business services.
Key responsibilities:- Lead sourcing activity across IT and wider indirect categories, including software, hardware, telecoms, professional services and business services.
- Develop and deliver category strategies that improve value, reduce risk and support wider business objectives.
- Partner with internal stakeholders to understand requirements, challenge demand and shape the best route to market.
- Manage supplier negotiations, contract renewals and commercial reviews to deliver savings and improved terms.
- Support supplier performance management, governance and risk mitigation across key third-party relationships.
- Strong indirect procurement experience, with clear exposure to IT categories such as software, hardware, SaaS, telecoms, infrastructure or managed services.
- Proven experience running end-to-end sourcing processes, tenders, negotiations and contract renewals.
- Comfortable working with senior stakeholders and influencing decision-making in a complex business environment.
- Strong commercial and analytical skills, with the ability to identify savings, manage risk and improve supplier performance.
- Flexible, proactive and hands-on approach, with the ability to manage multiple priorities across IT and wider indirect spend.
- Join a large, complex organisation where procurement has real visibility and influence.
- Opportunity to shape IT category strategy while retaining variety across broader indirect procurement.
- Work closely with senior stakeholders across a business undergoing continued transformation and improvement.
- Strong platform for someone who enjoys both strategic category management and hands-on delivery.
- Supportive procurement team with scope to develop, progress and make a tangible commercial impact.
Category Manager - IT/Indirects in Slough employer: Talent Drive | B Corp
Join a leading UK services and infrastructure business that values procurement as a key driver of success. With a strong focus on employee development, you will have the opportunity to shape IT category strategies while enjoying a collaborative work culture that encourages innovation and strategic thinking. Located in London, this role offers competitive compensation, a supportive team environment, and the chance to make a significant impact within a dynamic organisation undergoing transformation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager - IT/Indirects in Slough
✨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 Talent Drive | B Corp.
✨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 Category Manager - IT/Indirects in Slough
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 Talent Drive | B Corp:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Talent Drive | B Corp. 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 Talent Drive | B Corp.
How to prepare for a job interview at Talent Drive | B Corp
✨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 Talent Drive | B Corp!
✨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 Talent Drive | B Corp. 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 Talent Drive | B Corp's culture.
