Category Manager

Introduction

Here’s a role with real influence. You’ll shape how a complex, tech-driven organisation buys, manages and partners with the major vendors powering its digital and data transformation. If you enjoy combining commercial strategy with stakeholder leadership, this one sits right at the heart of the action.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Leading end-to-end sourcing strategies across software, cloud, cybersecurity, infrastructure and digital platforms.
• Working closely with Technology, Finance, Risk, Compliance and Security teams to align procurement with regulation and wider business priorities.
• Keeping ahead of the market — identifying innovation in fintech/insurtech and assessing where new vendors can add value.
• Taking ownership of key supplier negotiations, securing strong commercials and robust service levels.
• Managing major vendor relationships, ensuring compliance with data, security and regulatory standards.
• Implementing supplier governance, including scorecards, performance reviews and continuous improvement.
• Overseeing IT category budgets, modelling costs and delivering measurable savings and value.
• Managing TCO, ROI and associated risk across strategic technology investments.
• Supporting audit, regulatory reporting and third-party risk management requirements.
• Enhancing procurement processes, contract governance and renewal planning alongside the Procurement Operations team.
• Promoting sustainability, diversity and responsible sourcing while helping shape clear KPIs.

Main Skills Needed:

• Strong IT procurement/category management experience within financial services, banking or insurance.
• Deep knowledge of software licensing, managed services, cloud commercial models and tech vendor ecosystems.
• Confident negotiating high-value, complex agreements in regulated environments.
• Solid understanding of relevant regulatory frameworks and information security requirements.
• Excellent stakeholder, communication and influencing skills — especially with senior leaders.
• Strong analytical, commercial and risk-focused mindset.
• Familiarity with procurement systems, vendor risk tools and broader digital transformation initiatives.
• Professional procurement certifications (e.g., CIPS, CPSM) are a bonus.

What’s in It for You:

• A high-impact role shaping major technology investments across UK & Europe.
• Chance to work closely with senior decision-makers on digital, cloud and data transformation.
• Hybrid working with a supportive, collaborative culture.
• Exposure to cutting-edge vendors and emerging technology solutions.
• A business that takes governance, risk and sustainability seriously — and gives procurement real influence.
• Clear opportunities to grow your category leadership and strategic procurement capability.

We’ll keep this simple: if it sounds good, get in touch.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

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