Procurement Manager – Technology Category Lead
We are supporting a global consulting organization in the search for a Technology Category Lead (Senior Manager level) to oversee and elevate procurement activities within the Italian market. This leadership role is responsible for steering the full Technology category—covering hardware, software, and IT managed services—across both internal consumption and client-facing delivery teams.
Role Overview
The Procurement Technology Category Lead will serve as the primary point of reference for high‑value technology sourcing initiatives, driving strategy execution at the national level in alignment with global and regional directives. The position requires strong executive presence, technical depth, and the ability to influence senior internal stakeholders in complex, fast‑moving environments.
Key Responsibilities
* Own and deploy the global/regional Technology procurement strategy within the local market, shaping and guiding category initiatives.
* Lead and mentor the local Technology procurement team, ensuring capability growth and operational excellence.
* Translate strategic sourcing frameworks into local execution plans, generating measurable savings, optimizing service levels, and ensuring compliance.
* Support planning activities, forecasting upcoming sourcing waves and identifying strategic opportunities.
* Define supplier performance metrics (KPIs) and drive continuous improvement across the supply base.
* Oversee major negotiations involving multimillion‑euro contracts, frameworks, and complex commercial models.
* Ensure proper contract implementation, including adoption of preferred purchasing channels and policy adherence.
* Design and manage competitive sourcing events, including RFP development and end‑to‑end bid processes.
Required Experience & Skills
* Minimum 9 years of experience in procurement, category management, or strategic sourcing within Technology categories.
* Proven background working with IT hardware, software, and managed services in large, structured organizations.
* Strong experience in matrix environments, collaborating with global teams and senior internal stakeholders.
* Exceptional negotiation, communication, and influencing skills, combined with analytical and commercial acumen.
* Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously and operate effectively under pressure.
* Demonstrated executive presence and the ability to engage credibly with high‑level business leaders.
* Degree required; fluency in English is essential.
Preferred Backgrounds
* Candidates with experience in large consulting firms managing similar category volumes are strongly preferred.
* Consideration will also be given to professionals coming from major multinational corporations with substantial IT procurement scope (e.g., complex hardware/software portfolios or large-scale IT service contracts).