Senior Category Manager - IT, Business & Professional Services

Overview

We are seeking a Senior Category Manager to join the procurement team of a leading Irish company, based in Dublin or Kilkenny (hybrid work possible). Reporting to the Head of Procurement, this role offers the chance to take responsibility for a varied portfolio including IT, Business Services, and Professional Services. The successful candidate will steer procurement strategies, manage supplier relationships, and maximize commercial benefits while liaising with internal stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Formulate and execute category strategies that align with overarching business goals.
• Manage end-to-end sourcing, supplier engagement, and contract negotiations.
• Lead procurement activities across diverse indirect spend categories.
• Track supplier performance metrics and foster continuous enhancements.
• Assess and mitigate risks within the supply chain.
• Ensure all procurement operations adhere to company policies and industry best practices.
• Work collaboratively with various business stakeholders to drive value, innovation, and enhance service quality.

Candidate Requirements

• Degree in Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field.
• At least five years of experience in procurement with a focus on category management.
• Prior experience in IT procurement is highly preferred.
• Proven commercial acumen alongside strong negotiation and stakeholder management capabilities.
• Familiarity with procurement platforms such as SAP, Ariba, or equivalent systems is advantageous.