
Category Manager - IT/Telecoms & Centralised Services
- Vitry-sur-Seine, Val-de-Marne
- CDI
- Temps-plein
- Engaging with Stakeholders to develop most relevant product/service specifications
- Designing and deploying category and sourcing strategies that align to the business and divisional strategies and requirements
- Delivering sustainable competitive through the effective sourcing and spend management of the within the categories
- Minimising Detection risk exposure within the category
- Utilising best in class procurement practices.
- Promote and communicate the value of the Indirect Procurement function across the business
- Coordinate with local/regional procurement to consolidate further category spend
- Software (incl. Software as a Service) and Support Services
- Hardware and Print
- Network and Communication Services
- IT Consultancy Services and Outsourced IT Services (incl. Hosting Services)
- Centralised Services (Non-IT related Professional Services & Consultancy)
- Align sourcing activities with dedicated category strategy.
- Responsible for leading cross-functional teams of operational stakeholders, sourcing and commercial managers through the sourcing process to deliver breakthrough results that deliver commercial advantage for Smiths Detection.
- Work with the Indirect Procurement Head and Head of IT to develop and deliver a clear category strategy for the Detection Group.
- Responsible for ensuring suppliers provide value for money and business benefit to the company, including innovative proposals and following the Smiths Detection Sustainable Sourcing Strategy.
- Expected to have in depth knowledge of commercial and contract management trends in the respective supply markets to apply best practice to supplier management.
- Develop relationships with existing Suppliers that leverage spend to reduce costs whilst delivering innovation and benefit to our business.
- Develop new strategic relationships with new suppliers and partners to meet customer needs and requirements.
- Lead cost management exercises to identify waste and drive immediate savings in external costs.
- Identify opportunities to exploit economies of scale (group leverage, standardization, normalisation of suppliers etc.)
- Working with key stakeholders to gain an in-depth understanding of the industry and related business models is essential.
- The role is critical in driving improved customer experiences and reducing risk through the supply base within the categories.
- The role is not exhaustive, and the Company may require you from time to time to undertake other reasonable tasks within your capacity.
- Proven experience in leading end-to-end procurement projects within a structured sourcing process, including RFIs and RFPs.
- Strong background in building and executing long-term category and subcategory strategies aligned to overall business objectives.
- Demonstrated success in implementing and managing Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) processes, including structured supplier performance reviews and governance frameworks.
- Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills, with the ability to engage and gain commitment from diverse business functions and senior leadership.
- Solid understanding of contract review and negotiation, ensuring alignment with business strategies and risk mitigation requirements.
- Deep insight into market trends and supply dynamics, with the ability to anticipate business needs on a 1-3-year horizon.
- Strong analytical skills, with experience using e-sourcing platforms and spend/savings analytics tools.
- Track record of delivering measurable results through procurement strategies, supported by a balanced scorecard or similar performance metrics.
- Experience working within complex and matrixed organizations, driving innovation and continuous improvement across procurement functions.
- A collaborative leadership style with a focus on capability building, team development, and cross-functional alignment.
- Knowledge of how third-party providers contribute to the business model and customer value delivery.