Category Manager - IT

A major utilities organisation is seeking an experienced Category Manager to join its Procurement team and lead strategic sourcing and supplier management across a critical technology portfolio. This is a high-impact role responsible for developing and executing category strategies, managing key IT suppliers and delivering commercial value across the full procurement lifecycle. You will play a key role in shaping how the organisation sources and manages technology services while ensuring compliance within a regulated environment.

Job Title: Category Manager - IT Procurement
Location: South Coast, Hampshire (hybrid working available)
Salary: 53,000 - 66,000 depending on experience
Hours: 38 hours per week
Contract Type: Permanent

Working closely with senior stakeholders across the business, you will lead the development and implementation of IT category strategies that maximise value, reduce commercial risk and support long-term operational objectives. You will manage complex sourcing initiatives, oversee supplier relationships and drive continuous improvement across procurement practices.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Develop and deliver end-to-end IT category strategies aligned with organisational goals
• Manage a portfolio of IT suppliers, driving value, performance and continuous improvement
• Lead sourcing activities including tenders, negotiations and contract awards
• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers
• Analyse category spend and identify opportunities to reduce cost and improve efficiency
• Collaborate with business leaders to standardise procurement and reduce tail spend
• Ensure compliance with relevant procurement regulations and statutory obligations
• Promote best practice procurement processes across the organisation
• Contribute to strategic initiatives to improve procurement performance and service delivery

What we are looking for:

• Strong experience in IT category management or strategic sourcing
• Proven track record managing complex procurement activities and supplier relationships
• Strong commercial acumen with excellent negotiation and influencing skills
• Ability to analyse and present complex commercial data to senior stakeholders
• Experience working within a multi-stakeholder or regulated environment
• Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Knowledge of regulated procurement frameworks (e.g. PCR, UCR or similar)
• CIPS / MCIPS qualification or equivalent
• Project management experience or certification

Huntress Search Ltd acts as a Recruitment Agency in relation to all Permanent roles and as a Recruitment Business in relation to all Temporary roles.

We practice a diverse and inclusive recruitment process that ensures equal opportunity for all we work with, irrespective of race, sexual orientation, mental or physical disability, age or gender. As an organisation, we encourage applications from all backgrounds and will ensure measures are met when required, to allow a fair process throughout.

PLEASE NOTE: We can only consider applications from candidates who have the right to work in the UK.