Candidates: Create an Account or Sign In
Category Manager - IT Procurement/ Location: North East (Hybrid working)/ Salary: Competitive, with generous pension and benefits / Sector: Education / Public Sector / Contract: Permanent, Full Time
Client Details
Are you a commercially minded procurement leader with deep expertise in IT category management? We are partnering with a respected organisation in the public sector to recruit a strategic Category Manager - IT to join a high-performing procurement team driving real impact.
Description
The Role
As the IT Category Manager, you will be responsible for setting the strategic direction and delivery of the IT procurement function across a complex organisation. This senior role reports into the Head of Procurement and plays a key part in supporting the institution's strategic objectives through innovative sourcing, robust supplier management, and strong stakeholder engagement.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the development and implementation of an IT Category Plan, informed by data and market analysis.
Design and execute strategic sourcing strategies that drive value for money and deliver measurable savings.
Negotiate and manage high-value IT contracts, working collaboratively with stakeholders across finance, IT, and other departments.
Build and maintain effective supplier relationships, managing performance through KPIs and service-level dashboards.
Ensure procurement activities are compliant with both internal policies and external regulations.
Provide commercial advice, lead procurement-related training, and support capital works planning.
Coach junior team members and support broader procurement capability development.
Profile
Ideal Candidate
Substantial experience in IT category management within a complex environment.
Strong background in running tenders, supplier negotiations, and contract management.
Knowledge of UK procurement regulations and best practice.
Excellent leadership, stakeholder engagement, and communication skills.
Strategic thinker with a collaborative approach and a passion for delivering value and continuous improvement.
CIPS qualified (Level 4+ or equivalent experience) and degree-educated.
Desirable
Experience or knowledgeable in public sector.
Familiarity with IT asset management (ITAM) processes.
Understanding of commercial bid cost modelling.
Job Offer
Benefits
Salary up to £57,422 per annum
Hybrid working - flexible balance of on site and remote work
Excellent pension scheme and generous annual leave
Opportunities for ongoing professional development
A supportive, collaborative team culture
? Apply today via Michael Page to explore this opportunity further and help shape the future of IT procurement in a forward-thinking, mission-driven organisation