Senior Category Lead - Tech Platforms and SCM

Brambles; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 70,000 - GBP 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A global logistics company is seeking a Category Lead for their IT procurement functions in the UK. The successful candidate will drive category sourcing strategies, engage in complex negotiations, and ensure compliance in procurement activities. With proven experience in IT procurement and strategic sourcing skills, this role demands excellent stakeholder management and a deep knowledge of IT infrastructure and services. Join a dynamic team focused on delivering long-term value and optimizing procurement processes.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in Global IT procurement and strategic sourcing.
• Deep knowledge of sourcing and managing IT categories including Infrastructure and Cloud.
• Demonstrated expertise in complex contract negotiations for large-scale IT deals.

Responsibilities

• Own and deliver category sourcing strategies aligned to global procurement priorities.
• Drive complex negotiations for multi-million-dollar technology deals.
• Monitor and report on procurement KPIs including cost optimisation and supplier performance.

Skills

Global IT procurement expertise

Stakeholder management

Contract negotiation

Risk management

Cost optimization

Job description

We are looking for a hand on category lead for our technology services functions, responsible for our tech platforms, and supply chain management (software). As part of our global IT procurement team, the role will drive and execute project sourcing and contract renewals, managing a team of two.

Ideally, you’ll be experienced with categories includingmanaging large scale enterprise platforms and all things related to IT infrastructure. As part of the role you’ll be liaising with key stakeholders supporting with planning, cost saving opportunities and providing an overview of the supplier landscape, helping drive strategy.

Key responsibilities:

• Own and deliver category sourcing strategies that align to global procurement priorities and regional business needs.
• Be a champion of strategic sourcing, ensuring long‑term value and best‑in‑class procurement practices.
• Lead category management across major spend areas, using market intelligence, data insights, and advanced procurement methods to maximise value and reduce risk.
• Build strong relationships with senior stakeholders, ensuring procurement is involved early and adds strategic value across IT, Finance, and Legal.
• Drive complex negotiations for multi‑million‑dollar technology deals, managing commercial terms, pricing strategies, and contract performance.
• Oversee supplier performance, ensuring quality, delivery, cost, and service expectations are consistently met.
• Ensure all procurement activity adheres to compliance, governance, and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor and report on procurement KPIs, including cost optimisation, supplier performance, and category targets—providing clear insight to senior leadership.

What you’ll need:

• Proven experience in Global IT procurement and strategic sourcing.
• Deep knowledge of sourcing and managing IT categories: Infrastructure, Networks, Hardware, Cloud, End-User Tech, Supply chain software (or Enterprise Platforms).
• Demonstrated expertise in complex contract negotiations for large‑scale IT deals.
• Strong understanding of risk management—including cybersecurity, compliance, and supplier financial stability.
• Experience supporting major IT programmes and delivering measurable cost savings and TCO reduction.
• Excellent stakeholder management and relationship‑building skills across technical and corporate functions.