Assistant Category Manager

ASSISTANT CATEGORY MANAGER FOR IT & COMMUNICATIONS (MAXIGROUP PROCUREMENT)

Level: Assistant Manager

Leadership Responsibility: Leads cross-functional teams and individual contributors

Reporting Line: Strategic Procurement Manager, MaxiGroup Procurement

Position Accountability Statement:

The Assistant Category Manager for IT & Communications is a junior-level leadership role that is responsible for developing and executing strategic initiatives aimed at optimizing product categories within the organization.

This position entails an in-depth understanding of market trends, competitive landscape, and consumer preferences to drive category performance, enhance profitability, and support overall business objectives.

Broad Responsibility Highlights:

We are seeking a dynamic and results-oriented Assistant Category Manager to drive the strategic sourcing, procurement, and management of IT and communications services and products. In this critical role, you will lead the development and execution of category strategies to deliver high-quality, cost-effective solutions that support business operations and growth.

The Assistant Category Manager will work closely with IT, communications, and business leaders to ensure alignment with organizational goals while managing supplier relationships and ensuring optimal value across the IT & Communications category.

Key Responsibilities:

1.Category Strategy Development: Lead the development and implementation of strategic sourcing plans for IT and communications categories, ensuring alignment with company goals and objectives.

2.Contract Management: Oversee and manage the contract lifecycle for IT and communications suppliers. Ensure contracts reflect the business requirements and protect organizational interests.

3.Technology & Market Insights: Stay informed on the latest trends and innovations in IT and communications technologies. Assess industry best practices and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

4.Supplier Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and service providers. Lead contract negotiations, performance management, and identify opportunities for supplier collaboration to optimize outcomes and performance.

5.Procurement: Develop and execute procurement plans to meet business requirements, including RFPs, RFQs, and direct purchasing.

6.Category Analytics: Analyze spend data, identify opportunities for cost savings, and develop reporting to measure category performance.

7.Stakeholder Collaboration: Partner with cross-functional teams, including IT, legal, finance, and business units, to ensure clear communication, efficient processes, and the successful execution of sourcing strategies.

8.Process Improvement: Collaborate with internal stakeholders to identify process improvements and implement changes to optimize category management processes.

9.Cost Optimization and Budget Management: Manage budgets related to IT and communications sourcing. Identify cost-saving opportunities through vendor negotiations, consolidating suppliers, and streamlining procurement processes while ensuring quality standards are met.

10.Risk Management and Compliance: Proactively identify risks associated with IT and communications procurement and develop mitigation strategies. Ensure compliance with corporate policies, legal, and regulatory requirements.

11.Continuous Improvement: Stay up-to-date with industry trends, best practices, and regulatory changes to drive continuous improvement in category management.

12.Other tasks: Performs other related functions that may be assigned by the immediate supervisor, Procurement Head and/or Chief Operating Officer (COO).

Desired Competencies:

1.Critical Thinking

2.Stakeholder Management

3.Project Management

4.Leadership, Teamwork and Guidance

5.Innovation and Risk-Taking

6.Strategy & Execution

7.Strong Negotiation Skills

8.Data Analytics

9.Market Analysis

10.Financial Acumen

Professional Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Information Technology, Telecommunications, or a related field; a Master's degree or relevant professional certification such as CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management) is an advantage.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in IT and communications sourcing, category management, or procurement.
• In-depth knowledge of the IT and communications industries, including key vendors, technology trends, and best practices.
• Strong experience in supplier negotiations, contract management, and performance monitoring within the IT and communications category.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional projects and manage multiple stakeholders to achieve business outcomes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate complex technical requirements into strategic sourcing actions.
• Experience with procurement tools and platforms (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Ariba) and/or project management tools (e.g., MS Project, JIRA).
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.