Procurement Category Manager II

The Fountain Group is currently seeking a Procurement Category Manager II for a prominent client of ours. This position is located in Schaumburg, IL. Details for the position are as follows:

🧾 Job Title: Procurement Category Manager II

📍 Location: Schaumburg, IL (100% On-site)

⏳ Duration: 4 months (Possible extension/temp-to-hire)

💼 Work Schedule: Mon-Fri | 8 AM - 5 PM | 40 hours/week

💲 Pay Range: $36.00 - $42.00 / HR W2

📹 Interview Format: 2 virtual interviews (camera required)📌 Position Summary

The Procurement Category Manager II will be responsible for managing the Software procurement categories—with a focus on CyberSecurity and AI—by executing sourcing strategies, building supplier relationships, and driving value through cost savings, risk management, and compliance. This mid-to-senior level position operates with moderate supervision and handles complex procurement projects, ensuring alignment with business objectives and stakeholder needs.🎯 Key Responsibilities

📂 Category Management

• Develop and implement category strategies aligned with business and procurement goals
• Conduct spend analysis and evaluate market trends and supplier landscape
• Manage full procurement lifecycle: RFI/RFP/RFQ, negotiation, contract execution
  
  

🤝 Supplier Management

• Identify, qualify, and evaluate suppliers for performance and fit
• Lead supplier selection, onboarding, and relationship management
• Foster innovation and ensure compliance with contractual obligations
  
  

🧑💼 Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with Legal, Finance, IT, and business unit teams
• Provide training and guidance on procurement policies and best practices
  
  

📑 Contract Management

• Draft, negotiate, and manage software contracts, including renewals and amendments
• Ensure alignment with compliance standards and risk mitigation frameworks
  
  

🔄 Continuous Improvement & Compliance

• Track performance through KPIs and continuous improvement initiatives
• Ensure adherence to corporate procurement policies and relevant regulations
  
  

✅ Required Qualifications

🎓 Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Procurement, or related field
• Master’s degree or relevant certifications (CPM, CPSM) preferred
  
  

📊 Experience

• 5 years in procurement, category management, or strategic sourcing
• Experience with software procurement, preferably in CyberSecurity and AI domains
• Experience handling RFPs and vendor selection independently
  
  

💬 Skills & Competencies

• Strong negotiation, analytical, and stakeholder management skills
• Proficient in Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides); MS Office acceptable
• Excellent multitasking and communication abilities
  
  

🔐 Tools & Systems

• Preferred: Experience with iProcurement, Apttus, Fieldglass
• Familiarity with contract review, SOW creation, and legal/compliance processes
  
  

🌟 Preferred Skills & Nice-to-Haves

• Global or regional category management experience
• Familiarity with supplier performance reviews, QBRs, dashboards
• Understanding of marketing/advertising category procurement is a plus
• Working knowledge of contract law, vendor compliance, and risk mitigation
  
  

🧭 Team Structure & Reporting

🏢 Department Function

Sourcing and procurement to support operational efficiency, compliance, and value delivery across business units.

🔗 Cross-Functional Collaboration

Regular interaction with:

• Product teams
• Legal & Compliance
• Marketing & IT
• Senior leadership
  
  

👥 Reporting Line

• Reports to: Senior Procurement Manager
• Internal partners: Procurement team, Legal, IT, vendors, business stakeholders
• Direct Reports: None
  
  

📈 Key Contributions (First 90-120 Days)

• Complete onboarding and meet assigned deadlines
• Collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders
• Deliver updates and maintain communication flow
• Adhere to internal procurement and compliance procedures
• Leverage prior experience to introduce process improvements
  
  

#ZIP