Category Manager- IT Procurement Specialist
The Woodlands TX 77380
12 Months Contract
Interview- Video+ Onsite
Payrate- $60- $70/hr on W2
Possible job Titles:
IT Category Manager
Technology Category Manager
IT Procurement Manager
IT Sourcing Manager
Strategic Sourcing Manager – IT
Technology Procurement Manager
Senior IT Procurement Specialist
IT Strategic Sourcing Specialist
IT Vendor Manager
Technology Sourcing Manager
Essential Duties and Responsibilities IT Procurement Focus
Develop and manage strategic relationships with key IT suppliers, software vendors, and service providers to foster effective partnerships and ensure optimal value delivery.
Lead the development and execution of IT Category Strategies, including sourcing hardware, software, cloud services, and IT consulting; manage RFP/RFI processes; evaluate bids; and negotiate contracts in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
Create and implement negotiation strategies for IT purchases, ensuring alignment with internal stakeholders and compliance with IT governance and cybersecurity standards.
Procure IT goods and services across assigned categories, ensuring quality, reliability, and alignment with business needs and technology roadmaps.
Monitor and expedite IT order documentation and deliveries to meet project timelines and operational requirements.
Utilize SAP and other procurement systems to manage IT supplier agreements, pricing, and analytics; ensure accurate and timely data entry and reporting.
Collaborate with stakeholders in IT, Cybersecurity, Finance, and Operations to align procurement activities with strategic initiatives and budgetary goals.
Support IT procurement operations including bid tab creation, PO/proposal tracking, supplier onboarding, and contract lifecycle management.
Deliver cost savings, risk mitigation, and value creation aligned with IT Procurement KPIs and organizational goals.
Skills
Expertise in IT Category Management including sourcing strategies for hardware, software, SaaS, cloud infrastructure, and managed services.
Experience developing Master Service Agreements (MSAs), Software Licensing Agreements, and Statements of Work (SOWs) with strategic IT vendors.
Strong understanding of IT supplier relationship management, vendor risk assessment, and compliance (e.g., GDPR, SOC 2, ISO 27001).
Excellent communication and analytical skills to collaborate with IT, Cybersecurity, Finance, and Legal teams.
Ability to manage multiple IT procurement projects simultaneously in a dynamic environment.
Proficiency in business analysis, market research, cost modeling, and supplier performance metrics specific to IT categories.
Strong project management and problem-solving skills with a track record of resolving complex IT sourcing challenges.
Ability to influence stakeholders and drive alignment across technical and non-technical teams.
High attention to detail, deadlines, and reporting accuracy.
Advanced proficiency in MS Office Suite, SAP S4/HANA, and Source-to-Contract platforms (e.g., Ariba, GEP, Coupa).
Education and/or Experience
Bachelors degree in Business, Supply Chain, Information Technology, or related field; equivalent experience in IT procurement within a corporate or manufacturing environment.
5-10 years of experience in IT procurement or category management, preferably in industries with complex technology needs (e.g., manufacturing, petrochemicals, utilities).
Proven experience sourcing and managing IT categories such as:
- Enterprise software and licensing
- Cloud services and infrastructure
- Network equipment and cybersecurity solutions
- IT consulting and professional services
Experience with ERP systems (SAP S4/HANA or equivalent) and Source-to-Contract tools.
Familiarity with IT governance, data privacy, and regulatory compliance requirements.
Competencies
IT Category Management
Functional / Technical Skills
Strategic Thinking
Vendor Negotiation
Contract Management
Time Management
Problem Solving
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Process Optimization
Communication & Presentation Skills
Risk Management
Stakeholder Engagement