At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement for IT categories, managing software, hardware, and cloud services.
- Company: Dynamic company focused on technology and innovation.
- Benefits: Health care cash plan, private medical insurance, and 25 days annual leave.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in tech procurement while driving cost efficiency and innovation.
- Qualifications: Experience in IT procurement and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Category Lead – IT Location
Hybrid to Peterborough or London (ideally 1-2 days per week) We are seeking a commercially minded Category Lead to manage our IT and Technology categories.
You will be responsible for developing and delivering sourcing strategies across software, hardware, cloud, and IT services.
This role ensures that technology investments are cost-effective, scalable, secure, and aligned to business and digital transformation objectives.
Key Accountabilities & Responsibilities Lead the end-to-end procurement lifecycle across IT and Technology categories, managing a significant annual spend.
Manage procurement of Saa S, Paa S, Iaa S, and enterprise applications, ensuring optimisation and licence efficiency.
Oversee sourcing of devices, networks, and infrastructure to ensure performance, resilience, and cost control.
Manage sourcing of managed services, consulting, and support services to enhance capability and delivery.
Negotiate complex contracts and SLAs with key technology vendors, ensuring value and performance.
Support adoption of procurement technologies and automation to improve efficiency and visibility.
Ensure alignment with data security, regulatory, and cyber risk requirements.
Skills, Experience & Knowledge Procurement experience within IT or Technology categories.
Strong understanding of software, cloud, hardware, and IT services markets.
Proven ability to deliver cost optimisation and value creation.
Experience with procurement platforms such as SAP Ariba, Coupa, or Oracle.
Strong negotiation, commercial, and contract management skills.
Excellent stakeholder management across technical and non-technical teams.
Data-driven mindset with focus on continuous improvement and innovation.
Bachelor's degree in Business, IT, Supply Chain, or related field (Master's preferred).
Experience in complex or regulated environments advantageous.
Professional certification (CIPS, CPSM, or equivalent) preferred.
What we offer in return?
A collaborative and fast paced work environment Health care cash plan Private medical insurance 25 days annual leave plus
Category Lead - IT in London employer: Vermelo
Tradex Insurance is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, where employees are empowered to make impactful decisions. With a strong focus on professional development, employees have access to continuous learning opportunities and the chance to work closely with senior leaders in a dynamic environment. The role of 2nd Line Risk Partner offers the unique advantage of influencing key risk frameworks while travelling to vibrant locations like Manchester and Brentwood, ensuring a diverse and engaging work experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Lead - IT in London
✨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 Vermelo.
✨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 Lead - IT in London
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 Vermelo:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Vermelo. 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 Vermelo.
How to prepare for a job interview at Vermelo
✨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 Vermelo!
✨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 Vermelo. 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 Vermelo's culture.
