Category Manager – IT Procurement

Purpose

The Category Manager – IT Procurement is responsible for developing and executing category strategies for IT hardware, software, telecom, cloud services, SaaS, and technology‑related services. This role ensures cost optimization, supplier performance management, contract compliance, risk mitigation, and alignment with business and digital transformation objectives.

• Develop and implement comprehensive category strategies for IT procurement aligned with organizational objectives.
• Conduct spend analysis, market intelligence, and supplier benchmarking.
• Identify cost‑saving, value‑creation, and innovation opportunities within the IT category.
• Drive total cost of ownership (TCO) optimization initiatives.

• Lead end‑to‑end sourcing activities including RFPs, RFQs, RFIs, and negotiations.
• Negotiate pricing, service levels, and commercial terms with IT vendors.
• Deliver savings strategy in line with the annual set target.
• Establish and manage preferred supplier programs.
• Develop strong relationships with strategic IT vendors and stakeholders.
• Monitor supplier performance through KPIs and SLAs.

• Draft, review, and negotiate IT contracts in collaboration with Legal and IT teams.
• Ensure compliance with corporate procurement policies and regulatory requirements.
• Manage renewals, licensing agreements, software subscriptions, and support contracts.
• Mitigate risks related to cybersecurity, data privacy, and vendor dependency.

• Partner with IT, Finance, Legal, and business units to understand requirements.
• Provide procurement advisory support for digital transformation initiatives.
• Act as the primary procurement contact for IT‑related projects.

• Manage IT procurement budgets and forecast category spend.
• Track savings performance and report on procurement KPIs.
• Support budgeting and planning cycles.

• Conduct supplier risk assessments and business continuity evaluations.
• Ensure compliance with information security and data protection standards.
• Maintain proper documentation and audit trails.

• Bachelor’s degree, CIPS level 4 desirable.
• 5 to 7 years’ experience in a similar or larger organisation.

• Proficiency in English is required.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively support and engage with senior‑level stakeholders.
• Strong capability to articulate and communicate the value proposition of Procurement.
• Experience operating within a matrix‑driven environment, with the ability to contribute to and support cross‑functional initiatives.
• Willingness and flexibility to provide operational support across GEMS MENASA business functions, as required.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with strong negotiation abilities and proven success in managing geographically dispersed stakeholder relationships.

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