Responsibilities

• For assigned suppliers (TIER 2), identify global and local business needs, specifications, and requirements as input for sourcing projects, category strategy, and ongoing management of supplier relationships.
• Share knowledge with the Category Manager to develop and execute an overarching, forward-looking global category strategy for suppliers (TIER 2) within your scope.
• Collaborate with global business partners to understand strategic priorities, align on sub(category) strategy, and ensure adherence to the client’s Procurement Policy.
• Lead end-to-end global e-sourcing initiatives (RFI, RFQ/RFP, e-auctions), including gathering global requirements, market research, evaluating proposals, decision processes (TCO analysis, scenario analysis, etc.), conducting negotiations, and awarding.
• Manage third-party risk, ensuring compliance with regulations, client’s policies, and standards.
• Perform supplier relationship management, performance management, issue management, and resolution while facilitating supplier review and continuous improvement.
• Support Category Management with negotiations, selecting preferred suppliers, and establishing buying channels within the assigned scope.

Requirements

• Master’s degree or equivalent, preferably in a relevant field such as Supply Chain, (Computer) Engineering, Business Administration, or Finance.
• Experience as a subject matter expert in strategic sourcing and category management in IT Procurement in at least one of the domains: Software & SaaS, Hardware (Servers, Storage, Workplaces, Network, Data Centre equipment), or IT Services.
• Strong negotiation skills based on data and facts.
• Experience establishing global purchasing agreements directly with IT suppliers (not via resellers) – including drafting, reviewing, and negotiating.
• Ability to build strong relationships.
• Proactive and independent approach, with a good grasp of working in international environments.
• Strong organizational and communication skills, ability to work in a multi-tasking environment, and to prioritize tasks.

Nice to have

• Very good knowledge of Excel, PowerPoint, and E-Sourcing tools; experience with ERP systems or procurement tools
• Certifications such as CIPS or Nevi.
• Familiarity with regulatory frameworks (e.g., DORA, EBA, GDPR) or the financial industry.
• Experience managing global sourcing projects in/for large international organizations.
• Expertise in complex contracting with large software vendors or core banking software suppliers.