IT Category Manager

The opportunity

The IT Category Manager is responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies for IT products and services, optimizing spend, and ensuring strong vendor relationships to support the company's technology needs and strategic objectives.

How you will make an impact:

• Develop, implement, and manage comprehensive category strategies for various IT sub-categories (e.g., software, hardware, cloud services, telecommunications, IT consulting).
• Conduct market research and analysis to identify new technologies, suppliers, and sourcing opportunities, ensuring Hitachi remains competitive and innovative in its IT procurement.
• Lead the entire sourcing lifecycle, including RFI/RFP development, vendor evaluation, negotiation of commercial terms and contracts, and contract management.
• Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders across IT, finance, legal, and business units to understand their requirements, align sourcing strategies, and ensure successful project delivery.
• Manage supplier relationships, conducting regular performance reviews, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and ensuring compliance with contractual obligations and Hitachi's ethical standards.
• Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities, value-add initiatives, and risk mitigation strategies within the IT category.
• Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) for the IT category, providing regular reports on spend, savings, supplier performance, and market trends.
• Ensure adherence to corporate procurement policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes affecting the IT procurement landscape.

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Information Technology, or a related field. Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, or supply chain management, with at least 3 years specifically focused on IT categories. Experience in IT Hardware and User Devices preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and executing complex IT sourcing strategies, including large-scale software licensing, cloud services, and hardware procurements.
• Strong negotiation skills with a proven track record of achieving significant cost savings and favorable contract terms.
• Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to interpret market data, financial reports, and vendor proposals.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively across all levels of the organization.
• Proficiency in procurement software (e.g., SAP Ariba, Oracle Cloud Procurement) and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
• Certifications such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or other relevant procurement certifications are a plus.