Category Manager

Our client is a leading global law firm with an established international presence and a reputation for delivering specialist legal and advisory services across a diverse range of sectors. Operating across the UK, EMEA, APAC, LATAM and North America, the firm continues to invest heavily in technology, innovation and sustainable business practices to support its long-term growth strategy.

As part of its continued evolution, the Procurement function is seeking an experienced Category Manager to take ownership of the Technology, IT and AI spend portfolio. Working closely with senior business stakeholders and strategic suppliers, you will play a key role in delivering commercial value, driving innovation, strengthening supplier relationships and supporting the firm's global procurement objectives. This is an outstanding opportunity for a commercially minded procurement professional looking to influence business-wide decision making within a highly respected international organisation.

• Develop and deliver category strategies across Technology, IT and AI that align with business objectives and future growth plans
• Act as the procurement subject matter expert, providing strategic guidance throughout the sourcing and contract lifecycle
• Lead complex sourcing activities from market analysis and supplier selection through to tender management, negotiation and contract award
• Build and maintain strong relationships with senior stakeholders, influencing decision-making and ensuring procurement is engaged as a trusted business partner
• Negotiate commercial agreements that deliver value, manage risk and support operational requirements
• Manage key supplier relationships, driving performance, innovation and continuous improvement
• Support the ongoing development of global procurement policies, governance frameworks and best practices
• Champion sustainable procurement initiatives, ensuring suppliers operate in line with ethical, ESG and responsible sourcing standards
• Enhance procurement reporting, spend visibility and supplier performance measurement to provide meaningful commercial insight
• Identify and mitigate commercial, contractual and supply chain risks
• Deliver procurement and contract management training to stakeholders across the business
• Support the Head of Procurement in the continued development and maturity of the global procurement function

• Significant experience within Technology, IT and Digital Procurement, gained within a professional service, legal or similarly complex corporate environment
• Demonstrable success developing and implementing category strategies across technology-related spend areas
• Proven track record delivering high-value sourcing projects, supplier negotiations and contract management initiatives
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to balance value, risk and stakeholder requirements
• Exceptional stakeholder management and influencing skills, with experience engaging senior leadership teams
• Experience managing strategic suppliers and driving measurable improvements in supplier performance
• Knowledge of procurement governance, supplier risk management and sustainable sourcing practices
• Strong analytical, negotiation and communication skills
• CIPS qualification, or progress towards one, would be advantageous