Category Manager – Corporate & Professional Services

Introduction

In this procurement consulting role, the Category Manager will lead the development, execution, and ongoing management of category/sourcing strategies for IBM’s Procurement BPO clients. Above and beyond strategic sourcing activities, the Category Manager should understand the external market, learn the internal landscape of our client (requirements, organizational structure, priorities), and develop relationships to successfully deliver improved cost, reduced risk, and more efficient programs.

Your Role And Responsibilities

• Develop category strategies and/or sourcing strategies for the assigned areas of responsibility
• Build deep relationships with cross-functional client stakeholders including retained Procurement teams, business stakeholders, Legal, and Finance
• Identifies and delivers cost savings opportunities across the client’s Corporate & Professional Services spend
• Acts as a trusted advisor and SME in the areas of sourcing and negotiating contracts for Professional Services and other Indirect categories
• Achieves cost savings, risk mitigation, and process efficiencies through various value levers
• Leads supplier selection process and competitive bidding (RFx) across multiple simultaneous projects within the category
• Leads negotiations with current and potential suppliers as part of the contract renewal or vendor selection process
• Collects and analyzes internal/external category data, metrics, and reports to track performance against targets and identify new sourcing opportunities or category insights
• Innovates within the procurement space; looking at new ways to structure programs or categories, benefit from changes in supply market, or modify tools/processes to add value
• Provides support throughout the sourcing and contracting process when necessary, ensuring seamless handoffs to our clients when appropriate.
  
  

Preferred Education

Bachelor's Degree

Required Technical And Professional Expertise

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in strategic sourcing and category management
• At least 4 years of experience sourcing across Corporate and Professional Services categories, including Contingent Workforce, Consulting, Legal Services, HR and Benefits, and Learning and Development
• Ability and willingness to travel to client locations as required by business needs
• Hybrid role requiring a minimum of three days per week onsite at an IBM or client office. Preferred locations include Research Triangle Park / Raleigh, North Carolina, and Austin, Texas
  
  

Preferred Technical And Professional Experience

• Previous experience in a client facing / consultative role
• Degree in Business, Law, Supply Chain Management or another applicable field