Senior IT Category Manager

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an ambitious individual to join our growing Procurement team. This important role will focus on increasing our strategic IT procurement capability, transforming the way we work, and delivering opportunities that drive EBITDA improvement.

We are passionate about our potential and are looking for someone who will be instrumental in helping develop our talent, be a champion for procurement and who is motivated to build strong relationships with our technology teams.

This is an exciting, challenging, hands on role where you will make a significant contribution to a dynamic and fast-growing business. The role holder will be primarily focusing on IT resellers to maximise value for money for OneAdvanced, together with partnering with our ITO business unit which acts as public and private sector reseller of licences and services from OneAdvanced and third parties.

• Own the development and execution of category strategies for key areas of our technology organisation.
• Provide proactive, decisive high-value procurement consultation to the business through thorough understanding of the business needs.
• Utilise optimal sourcing methods to balance cost, risk, quality and speed. Lead the sourcing activities and negotiations for large and complex IT contracts.
• Leverage market developments/industry best practises to drive efficiencies and global cost savings.
• Proactively managing new suppliers, services, and service extensions in conjunction with business sponsors and other stakeholders to maximise the benefits sought, e.g. financial, operational, risk mitigation etc.
• Identify and facilitate conversations with stakeholders regarding opportunities for technology innovation.
• Keep internal stakeholders informed of Procurement activities and progress through collaborative working and pro-active communication.
• Champion positive change and continuous improvement leading initiatives as part of procurements ongoing growth and development
• Drive a culture of data led decision making and procurement automation.
• Define and manage the implementation of effective contract management practices, supplier due diligence and supplier risk management.

• Strong technology experience, a solid understanding of spend categories at a technical and market level including:
• Cloud
• DevOps tooling
• Technology Frameworks
• AI software / applications
• Testing / Automation
• Cyber / IT Security
• Strong market knowledge and evidence of utilising that knowledge to make changes to procurement plans and business decisions.
• Strong procurement and contract management experience, and a solid understanding of procurement processes and principles, commercial and legal constructs, and financial models.
• broad understanding of financial management principles.
• Skills to influence and drive effective change in a fast paced environment.
• Self-motivation, tenacity, and a focus on delivery.
• Gravitas, the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels, balancing challenge with pragmatism.
• Superb problem-solving and relationship-building skills in complex supplier and internal customer relationship environments. The ability to visualise, articulate ideas and concepts succinctly.
• Confidence to work with ambiguity, prioritise effectively, assess and manage risk and make decisions.
• Flexibility and resilience.
• CIPS or equivalent qualification/experience

Wellbeing focused – Our people are our greatest assets, and ensuring everyone feels their best self to come to work is integral

• Annual Leave – 25 days of annual leave, plus public holidays and the ability to buy additional days
• Employee Assistance Programme – Free advice, support, and confidential counselling available 24/7 through Care First
• Endometriosis Friendly Employer - We are proud to confirm our commitment to developing an environment and culture that allows those with endometriosis to thrive in the workplace

Personal Growth - Regardless of where you are at in your career, we’re committed to enabling your growth personally and professionally

• Development Programmes – From Future Managers to Leadership Training, our development programmes help you get where you need to go
• Performance Bonus – Our Group-wide bonus scheme enables you to reap the rewards of your success

Financial wellbeing - We understand as well as your mental wellbeing, your financial wellbeing is really important

• Pension Scheme – Our plan with Scottish Widows offers 5% matched contribution by the company
• Income protection insurance – Providing you with support and assistance when you need it most

Recognition – Highlighting and rewarding the great work our people do

• Values Awards – Our quarterly employee-driven initiative to highlight and reward the people in the organisation who embody our values the most
• Performance & Talent – Our own technology platform that allows you to get real-time feedback, conversations and goals to help you become your best self

Making a Difference – we provide opportunities to help our people make a difference to the causes they care about

• MatchIt! – Fundraise for a cause close to your heart and Advanced will match part of the funding
• Volunteering Time – Our volunteering leave scheme allows you to use your time to help those who need it
• Pennies from Heaven – donate the pennies from your pay check to help make a difference without lifting a finger