At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive strategic initiatives in technology procurement and negotiate with top IT vendors.
- Company: Join WPP, a global leader in media and marketing solutions.
- Benefits: Hybrid working model, career growth opportunities, and a culture of creativity.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with passionate people and unique projects.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative team shaping the future of technology procurement.
- Qualifications: Experience in IT procurement and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world's leading brands. We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel in a single company - powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform, WPP Open, to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth. We work with the world's most valuable brands and have global reach across 100+ markets, with deep local expertise. Our people are the key to our success. We're committed to fostering a culture of creativity, belonging and continuous learning, attracting and developing the brightest talent, and providing exciting career opportunities that help our people grow.
Why we're hiring: This is an exciting opportunity to join WPP during a period of global transformation. As part of our Technology & Telecommunications Procurement team, this role plays a key part in supporting strategic initiatives that are shaping the future of our business. This is a replacement role within a collaborative, forward-thinking team. This role is based on a hybrid working model, with three days a week spent collaborating in person with our team and stakeholders at our office.
What you'll be doing: This role focuses on delivering business and commercial value within the Technology and Telco spend category (with a particular focus on IT). You will engage with stakeholders across the business, run RFPs for complex goods and services, and negotiate statements of work and master agreements. This position offers excellent exposure to working with some of the world's largest IT vendors, service integrators, and telecommunications companies, alongside global projects with senior stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities:- Category Strategy: Develop and execute global plans for sub-categories within the IT and Telco space, driving cost savings, continuous improvement, and innovation.
- Market Insight: Maintain a deep understanding of IT supply markets to provide insights on best practices, market challenges, and the best-fit vendors for WPP's needs.
- Sourcing Leadership: Lead sourcing initiatives (e.g. RFPs), shape demand management, and deliver robust commercial guidance to influence senior decision-making.
- Relationship Management: Develop and deliver successful supplier relationship management plans and preferred supplier policies.
- Collaboration: Work as a cohesive part of the wider WPP Procurement team and lead/participate in matrixed project environments.
Who you'll be working with: You will report to the Category Director of IT Services, Infrastructure and Telco. Working with the Enterprise Technology (ET) Leadership team, ET CFO and Finance Business Partners and some of the largest suppliers in the Technology and Telco sector.
What you'll need:
- IT Procurement Expertise: Proven experience in technology procurement, with strong technical skills and a track record of leading complex, high-value RFPs and category plans in a global environment.
- Negotiation & Contract Skills: Strong hands-on experience in contract and Statement of Work (SOW) drafting, with the ability to lead pragmatic, commercial negotiations.
- Stakeholder & Vendor Management: Experience managing complex IT supplier relationships (including large technology organisations) and the ability to influence and advise senior business leaders.
- Project & Team Leadership: Strong project management skills with the ability to multi-task, work within matrixed teams, and collaborate effectively with offshore teams.
Who you are: You're open: We are inclusive and collaborative; we encourage the free exchange of ideas; we respect and celebrate diverse views. We are open-minded: to new ideas, new partnerships, new ways of working. You're optimistic: We believe in the power of creativity, technology and talent to create brighter futures for our people, our clients and our communities. We approach all that we do with conviction: to try the new and to seek the unexpected. You're extraordinary: we are stronger together: through collaboration we achieve the amazing. We are creative leaders and pioneers of our industry; we provide extraordinary every day.
What we'll give you: Passionate, inspired people - We aim to create a culture in which people can do extraordinary work. Scale and opportunity - We offer the opportunity to create, influence and complete projects at a scale that is unparalleled in the industry. Challenging and stimulating work - Unique work and the opportunity to join a group of creative problem solvers.
Are you up for the challenge? We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we've adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office around four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process. WPP is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to particular characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.
Procurement Category Manager - Technology in London employer: WPP Media
WPP Media is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and collaborative work culture in the heart of Greater London. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, we offer competitive benefits and a hybrid work model that encourages creativity and flexibility, making it an ideal environment for professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in the media landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Category Manager - Technology 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 WPP Media.
✨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 Procurement Category Manager - Technology 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 WPP Media:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to WPP Media. 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 WPP Media.
How to prepare for a job interview at WPP Media
✨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 WPP Media!
✨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 WPP Media. 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 WPP Media's culture.
