Develop and execute global procurement strategies for IT infrastructure categories, including hardware, software, cybersecurity, and cloud services. Lead RFI/RFP processes, negotiate complex contracts, analyze technology markets and spending, optimize supplier relationships, and track category performance through KPIs and dashboards. Partner with IT, Finance, Legal, and international stakeholders to deliver cost-efficient, sustainable, and transparent sourcing outcomes while supporting procurement transformation and ESG standards.
As a Category Manager, you will play a pivotal role in driving the strategic procurement of IT infrastructure of Enterprise Campus Edge business unit. You will act as a trusted, knowledgeable, and solution-oriented business partner, working closely with international teams and external partners to deliver sustainable, cost-efficient, and innovative technology solutions. Your goal is to execute our strategic procurement practices while ensuring all processes are robust and transparent.
ResponsibilitiesStrategy & Sourcing Excellence
- Design and implement global procurement strategies for IT infrastructure, including hardware, software, cybersecurity, and cloud services.
- Lead the end-to-end RFI/RFP lifecycle and negotiate complex contracts with global IT market leaders to drive margin improvements.
- Optimize the software landscape and IT delivery models in alignment with the company’s future strategic direction.
- Conduct comprehensive market and spend analyses to maintain a deep understanding of technology supply markets and commercial models.
- Utilize advanced analytical tools for competitive benchmarking and data-driven decision-making.
Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration
- Partner with IT, Finance, Legal and other global functions to understand business requirements and influence demand.
- Build trusted, collaborative relationships across the organization to ensure procurement activities meet core business needs.
- Collaborate and exchange expertise with international strategic buyers to implement sourcing best practices.
Operational & Process Excellence
- Contribute to the Procurement Transformation through the adoption of new processes, analytics, and innovative ways of working.
- Cultivate and evolve strategic supplier relationships, implementing targeted improvement measures based on performance evaluations.
- Implement and track KPIs, performance dashboards, and reporting mechanisms to manage category performance effectively.
- Support the development of procurement documentation, playbooks, and standardized best practices.
- Promote ethical business practices and ensure the highest Environmental, Sustainability, and Governance (ESG) standards.
Your Profile
- Education & Experience: A degree in Engineering, IT, or Business, with 5+ years of experience in procurement roles - ideally within IT infrastructure or professional services.
- Technical Expertise: Knowledge of IT categories (Cloud, Software, Hardware) and a strong understanding of current market structures. While technical knowledge is valuable, we place a high premium on the right attitude and a demonstrated ability to showcase delivery excellence.
- Methodological Strength: Solid understanding of Category Management and strategic sourcing methodologies, with the ability to apply them in a fit-for-purpose manner.
- Negotiation & Commercial Skills: Strong analytical and negotiation capabilities, basic knowledge and experience in legal and procurement contract structure.
- Strategic & Hands-on Balance: Ability to structure complex strategic topics while maintaining a focus on hands-on operational delivery.
- Stakeholder Management: Confidence working with senior stakeholders and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-moving environment.
- Mindset: A high level of initiative and assertiveness, combined with a collaborative “win-together” mindset.
- Communication: Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with professional proficiency in English.
Nokia Chennai, Tamil Nadu, IND Office
Chennai, India
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