At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global procurement for IT & Digital, ensuring optimal value in technology acquisitions.
- Company: Join UCB, a global biopharmaceutical leader focused on innovation and patient care.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, diverse work culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in technology procurement while collaborating with industry leaders.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in strategic procurement or digital tech roles, strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60750 - 74250 £ per year.
Make your mark for patients. We are looking for a Global Procurement Manager for IT & Digital who is strategic, influential, and deeply knowledgeable about technology to join our Procurement team at UCB, based out of Slough, UK.
About the Role: As the Global Procurement Manager IT & Digital, you will ensure the organization secures optimal value when acquiring technology including software, hardware, and telecom solutions. You will collaborate closely with Digital Technology business leaders to understand organizational needs, assess technology vendors, negotiate optimal commercial terms, and proactively manage a global technology spend. Your strong, current knowledge of IT and digital trends will enable you to make informed decisions and drive procurement excellence across multiple regions and regulatory landscapes.
Who You'll Work With: You will work closely with Digital Technology leadership, cross-functional internal stakeholders and strategic suppliers. Operating within a global remit, you will build productive supplier relationships, partner with internal teams to support business needs, and act as a key advisor on technology sourcing, risk management, and sustainability requirements.
What You'll Do:
- Manage a global Technology spend and oversee end-to-end technology procurement processes.
- Develop and implement technology category strategies to drive proactive spend management.
- Identify opportunities to optimize technology spend and enhance supplier value.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders and strategic suppliers.
- Identify potential suppliers and lead supplier selection efforts.
- Manage complex RFI/RFP processes using procurement-approved tools.
- Provide fact-based sourcing recommendations considering market dynamics and competitive trends.
- Negotiate commercial terms and ensure contractual compliance in partnership with Legal.
- Embed risk management and sustainability requirements into supplier contracts.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives and approve POs within defined thresholds.
Essential Skills and Experience:
- Minimum 8 years' experience in strategic procurement, sales, or digital technology roles.
- Strong negotiation and supplier management experience, especially within technology domains.
- Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and leadership skills.
- Deep understanding of the IT/Digital landscape, with curiosity and adaptability in a dynamic environment.
- Team-oriented, collaborative mindset with commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Fluent in English.
About us: UCB is a global biopharmaceutical company, focusing on neurology and immunology. We are over 9,000 people in all four corners of the globe, inspired by patients and driven by science.
Why work with us? At UCB, we don't just complete tasks, we create value. We aren't afraid to push forward, collaborate, and innovate.
IT & Digital Procurement Category Manager (UK) in Reading employer: UCB S.A.
UCB is an exceptional employer that prioritises innovation and collaboration, making a significant impact in the biopharmaceutical industry. With a supportive work culture that values inclusivity and personal growth, employees are encouraged to explore their potential while contributing to meaningful patient solutions. Located in Slough, UK, UCB offers a hybrid-first work environment, allowing for flexibility and teamwork, ensuring that every team member can thrive both professionally and personally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land IT & Digital Procurement Category Manager (UK) in Reading
✨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 UCB S.A..
✨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 IT & Digital Procurement Category Manager (UK) in Reading
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 UCB S.A.:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to UCB S.A.. 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 UCB S.A..
How to prepare for a job interview at UCB S.A.
✨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 UCB S.A.!
✨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 UCB S.A.. 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 UCB S.A.'s culture.
