Category Manager - IT Infrastructure (HPC) in Haywards Heath

Viridien (www.viridiengroup.com) is an advanced technology, digital and Earth data company that pushes the boundaries of science for a more prosperous and sustainable future. With our ingenuity, drive and deep curiosity we discover new insights, innovations, and solutions that efficiently and responsibly resolve complex natural resource, digital, energy transition and infrastructure challenges.

The Category Manager - IT Infrastructure (HPC) globally will commercially lead end-to-end strategic sourcing for high-performance computing hardware and infrastructure. This includes sourcing complete servers, compute, storage, networking, accelerators (e.g., GPUs, CPUs), and other HPC-related technologies. You’ll collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, operations, IT, legal, and finance teams to ensure strategic alignment and vendor performance.

• Lead sourcing initiatives for HPC infrastructure, including compute, networking, storage, and accelerator technologies.
• Partner with HPC, IT, and business stakeholders to understand requirements, define sourcing strategies, develop category plans, and deliver high-value outcomes.
• Conduct competitive RFx processes, supplier negotiations, and total cost of ownership (TCO) analyses.
• Build and manage relationships with key HPC technology vendors, ensuring optimal commercial and operational performance, including performance tracking and contract renewals.
• Negotiate agreements with a focus on pricing, licensing rights (where applicable), service-level agreements (SLAs), and risk mitigation.
• Stay current on HPC technology trends and market dynamics to inform category strategy.
• Support CAPEX/OPEX planning and budgeting for HPC infrastructure spend.
• Place PO’s for HPC orders.

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or relevant work experience.
• 5+ years of experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, or category management.
• Strong knowledge of HPC hardware components (Servers-GPU/CPU, GPUs, CPUs, storage, and networking).
• Proven experience negotiating contracts and managing complex vendor relationships.
• Financial and commercial acumen with the ability to analyze cost models and TCO.
• Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple concurrent projects.
• Strong analytical mindset with attention to detail and risk mitigation.

• Experience in the energy, technology, or semiconductor industry.
• Familiarity with open-source licensing and software models used in HPC environments.
• Direct experience or strong familiarity with HPC hardware sourcing.
• Certification in supply chain or procurement (CPSM, CSCP, etc.) is a plus.

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Highly attractive bonus scheme.
• Initial 22 days annual leave with future increases, complemented by a flexible buying and selling holiday program.
• Company pension with generous employer contribution.
• Wellbeing Unmind app – puts you in control of your mental health.
• A flexible benefits platform with numerous discount schemes - gym membership, restaurants, cinema tickets, and much more!
• Regular social club events, spontaneous reward events throughout the year.
• Cycle purchase scheme.
• Flexible Private Medical & Dental care programmes.
• Sponsorship of visas/comprehensive relocation packages.
• Bank Holiday Swap - our holiday swap program allows you to change it for another day of your choice!
• Relaxed dress code policy.
• Onsite Gym Facilities.
• Learning and Development: At Viridien, we foster a culture of continuous learning and provide tailored training programs through our Learning Hub, designed to enhance technical, commercial, and personal growth.
• We Care About The Environment: We encourage and actively support a strong sense of community, through volunteering and various company initiatives, as well as a strong company commitment to protecting our environment through sustainable solutions, energy saving and waste reduction enterprises.
• Our Hiring Process: At Viridien, we are committed to delivering a respectful, inclusive, and transparent recruitment experience. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we may not be able to provide individual feedback to every applicant. Only candidates whose qualifications closely match the role criteria will be contacted for an interview. We do, however, aim to share personalized feedback with those who progress to the first round of interviews and beyond. We are also dedicated to ensuring that our hiring process accessible to all. If you require any reasonable adjustments to fully participate in the application or interview stages, please don’t hesitate to contact your recruiter directly.
• We see things differently. Diversity fuels our innovation, we value the unique ways in which we differ, and we are committed to equal employment opportunities for all professionals.