Indirect Category Lead

Overview

A leading U.S. utilities organization is seeking an experienced IT Category Lead to drive sourcing strategy across complex IT services spend, with a strong focus on Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and strategic vendor ecosystems.

This role will own end-to-end category strategy, supplier performance, and high-value negotiations, working closely with senior stakeholders to optimize cost, quality, and supplier innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead category strategy development across IT services, with a focus on MSP, consulting, and managed delivery models
• Own and execute RFPs, RFIs, and supplier negotiations to secure best-value agreements
• Build and manage strategic relationships with MSP suppliers, including performance governance and continuous improvement initiatives
• Develop and implement supplier performance scorecards and KPI frameworks for managed services
• Negotiate and manage complex contracts, including multi-year managed service agreements and outcome-based pricing models
• Conduct supplier risk analysis and market intelligence across IT services landscapes
• Partner with senior stakeholders across IT, Finance, and Legal to align sourcing strategies with business goals
• Drive innovation through supplier partnerships, particularly across digital transformation and outsourced IT delivery models

Requirements

• 6-8 years' experience in IT sourcing / procurement, ideally within MSP or outsourced IT services
• Proven experience managing MSP vendors, system integrators, or consulting partners
• Strong track record in complex contract negotiation and supplier governance
• Experience with IT services categories (e.g., cloud services, application support, infrastructure outsourcing)
• Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills
• Experience using procurement tools (e.g., SAP, Ariba)

If you have a background in indirect procurement and are interested, apply in!