IT Category Manager

Data-Core Systems Inc. is seeking a IT Category Manager to be a part of our Consulting team. You will participate and effectively contribute to the design, development, and implementation of complex applications, often using new technologies. You will provide technical expertise and systems design for individual initiatives. You will have the opportunity to work with other SME consultants from our existing team.

About the Job:

The client is hiring an IT Category Manager for a permanent, hybrid role with our team. The IT Category Manager is a critical role within the Global Procurement team that is responsible for managing category portfolio for IT, Telecom & related services that align with the client s vision & strategic priorities. This role will report to Procurement Director, IT and Corporate Services.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement IT category strategies to optimize company spend and drive business efficiencies.
• Build strong relationships with the internal IT business partners to understand the global spend and identify opportunities to increase quality and improve value for money.
• Plan and execute effective negotiation strategies and competitive processes with vendors to best position the company for success, including financial analysis and business needs assessment.
• Lead contract negotiations with major vendors for hardware, software, Cloud Services, Telecommunications and technology professional services with Axalta best
• Develop and maintain expert knowledge of respective global supply markets, competitors and product innovations.
• Excellent understanding of IT Protocols and guidelines.
• Act as a trusted advisor and partner to the relevant stakeholders (e.g. business, IT) to ensure alignment (strategy, support needed and timing) on strategic initiatives and realization of best deals and outcomes for Axalta
• Collaborate with IT stakeholders on strategic planning efforts in support of both IT and company-wide objectives (e.g. RFPs to be launched in following year, renewal negotiation timing depending on complexity, net new initiatives/projects)
• Collaborate with Axalta matrix partners (e.g. Legal, Information Security, Privacy) to ensure best deals and outcomes are realized by Axalta, in compliance with Axalta policies while mitigating any related risks
• Ability to take ownership and accountability of categories assigned Leverage Axalta source to contract tooling (tracking: contracts, savings, competitive events, etc.) as the source of truth
• Partner with peers in the IT Procurement team and across Procurement to ensure cohesion.

Core Competencies:

• Customer-centric attitude with prior success integrating services with stakeholders and aligning strategies.
• Ability to structure and manage relevant projects.
• Exceptional written and oral communication and presentation skills
• Proven planning, organizational, analytical, and financial skills
• Strong interpersonal skills that include the ability to partner and communicate with all levels of the organization.
• An effective understanding of Procurement and Supply Chain best practices.
• Experience with Ariba Procurement tooling a plus
• Credible, respected, and respectful to company members and suppliers at all levels
• Ability to influence others at all levels of the organization.
• Ability to work in a dynamic environment and work towards meeting critical milestones and deliverables.
• Must be a self-starter and able to work independently.
• Very strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Education and Skills:

• Bachelor s degree in business management, supply chain management, or equivalent field, MBA preferred
• 7+ years of IT procurement experience
• 7+ years of contract negotiation and red-lining experience (e.g. master agreements, statements of work, orders)

We are an equal opportunity employer.