Global Category Manager – Software Permanent

Global Category Manager – Software
Location: Northampton

Salary: £90k – £115k + Bonus + Package

Are you an experienced software procurement professional with a passion for driving commercial success and strategic category management? Join a leading blue-chip business, where you will play a pivotal role in optimising software procurement and supplier management to deliver outstanding value.

Summary

As the Global Category Manager – Software, you will lead the software category area to drive value, manage supplier relationships (continuous improvement), and implement category strategy. This role requires a strategic thinker with a depth of experience in software procurement, data-driven decision-making, and strong leadership skills to guide a high-performing team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the procurement strategy for software across the business, ensuring alignment with business goals.
• Manage key supplier relationships, including negotiations and performance monitoring, to drive commercial benefits.
• Provide expert advice on procurement opportunities and IT procurement best practices.
• Oversee a team of category managers and supplier management professionals, ensuring optimal outcomes for third-party engagements.
• Utilise data analysis to challenge cost drivers and identify improvement opportunities.
• Act as a key liaison between business units and procurement, ensuring clear communication and alignment of strategies.
• Drive compliance with third-party risk management processes and champion supplier diversity initiatives.

Key Skills/Experience:

• Strong expertise in software procurement and category management.
• Proven track record of driving cost efficiencies and commercial opportunities within a procurement function.
• Extensive experience in contract negotiation and supplier relationship management.
• Strong analytical skills to leverage data insights and support decision-making.
• People leadership experience with a focus on performance management and team development.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence at senior levels.
• CIPS qualification (or equivalent) is desirable but not essential.
• Understanding of software licensing models and procurement best practice is key.

Tagged as: banking, cips, Financial Services, MCIPS, procurement, SaaS, software