Job ID: U#1273 - Senior Category Manager
PLEASE NOTE: This is a 5 month contract to hire and needs to meet Client full-time conversion policies. Those dependent on a work permit sponsor now or anytime in the future (ie H1B, OPT, CPT, etc) do not meet Client requirements for this opening.
***A procurement/sourcing candidate with deep experience in large, complex deals such as Microsoft, IBM.
Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage the global technology procurement category portfolio including all enterprise software (e.g., on premise, cloud, SaaS etc.), hardware, communications platforms and managed services, IT Professional Services
- Responsible for all aspects of IT sourcing processes through the lifecycle of RFx, negotiations and execution of legal agreements for new, renewal or extension cycles of licensed products and services - inclusive of supporting necessary governance approvals and business case development
- Develop, maintain and expand key supplier relationships to deliver high levels of service while maintaining best-in-class commercial terms and conditions; manage preferred supplier selection and review processes; rationalize suppliers and consolidate buying power to simplify supplier ecosystem
- Build and enhance relationships with key business stakeholders in COUs / Segments, IT, Finance, Legal, Cybersecurity and other areas within the UL enterprise to engage strategic sourcing throughout the process and be a trusted advisor to the business
- Lead key sourcing initiatives as needed, achieving best value within acceptable risk. (e.g., deliver process improvements / toolset implementation)
- Ensure Global Sourcing policy adherence and enforcement across the UL Solutions enterprise
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business, Information Technology or related field 3+ years of experience in developing and executing category strategies in IT Sourcing software, hardware and IT Professional Services.
- Prior experience with negotiating with Oracle, Salesforce, Microsoft and ServiceNow preferred.
- Prior experience with negotiating with IT contracting and consulting firms (e.g., Infosys, Accenture) preferred.
- Effective communication, documentation, and interpersonal skills with a focus on collaboration and partnerships across the organization.
- This person will have direct interaction with C-suite leadership.
- Comfortable independently interacting with and presenting to senior leadership including C-level executives.
- Experienced sourcing practitioner, understanding of best-practice sourcing methodology and a demonstrated track record of working ethically and collaboratively to achieve excellent outcomes
- Knowledge of standard commercial contracting practices and procedures. Proven track record of delivering significant and sustainable cost reductions through effective development and execution of sourcing strategy
- Ability to take a hands-on approach to analyze and interpret spend data is support of sourcing initiatives and UL business objectives
- Solves complex problems independently and takes a broad perspective to identify innovative solutions
- Proven track record of delivering significant and sustainable cost reductions through effective development and execution of sourcing strategy
- Strong process management, organizational and effective time management skills
- Attention to detail with strong documentation skills CPM/CPSM or PMP certification a plus
Job Types: Full-time, Contract
Pay: $60.00 - $70.00 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Northbrook, IL 60062