In this procurement consulting role, the Category Manager will lead the development, execution, and ongoing management of category/ strategies for IBM’s Procurement BPO clients. Above and beyond activities, the Category Manager should understand external variables, learn the internal landscape of our (requirements, organizational structure, priorities) and develop relationships to successfully deliver improved cost, reduced risk, and more efficient programs.
Your Role and Responsibilities- Develops category strategies and/orsourcingstrategies for the assigned areas of responsibility.
- Builds deep relationships with cross-functionalclientstakeholders including retained Procurement teams, business stakeholders, Legal, and Finance.
- Identifies cost savings opportunities across theclient’s Information Technology spend.
- Acts as a trusted advisor and SME in the areas ofsourcingand negotiating contracts for Technology and other Indirect categories.
- Achieves cost savings, risk mitigation, and process efficiencies through various value levers.
- Leads supplier selection process across multiple simultaneous projects within the category.
- Leads negotiations with current and potential suppliers as part of the contract renewal or vendor selection process.
- Collects and analyzes internal/external category data, metrics, and reports to track performance against targets and identify newsourcingopportunities or category insights.
- Innovates within the procurement space; looking at new ways to structure programs or categories, benefit from changes in supply market, or modify tools/processes to add value.
- Provides support throughout thesourcingand contracting process when necessary, ensuring seamless handoff to our clients when appropriate.
Required Technical and Professional Expertise
- A minimum of 7 years ofstrategicsourcingandcategory managementexperience
- 4+ yearssourcingITcategories in areas such as:Hardware,Software,ITServices, andTelecom
- Candidates must be willing and able to travel toclientlocations based on business requirements
The required location for this position is Toronto, ON
Preferred Technical and Professional Expertise
- Previous experience in aclientfacing / consultative role
- Degree in Business, Law, Supply Chain Management or other applicable field