Category Leader – IT

About the role

As Category Leader – IT you will lead sourcing activities across all IT categories, including SaaS, hardware, cloud solutions and licensing, within a regulated generic pharmaceutical environment. You will act as a strategic partner to IT, Digital, Finance and Business teams, driving cost‑efficient, compliant and secure procurement solutions.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the global IT category strategy, aligning it with business priorities, digital roadmaps and cybersecurity requirements.
• Execute tactical sourcing events (RFIs/RFPs, bid evaluation, contract negotiation) for IT hardware, software and services, ensuring competitive supplier selection and compliance.
• Lead supplier relationship management, monitor performance via KPIs, and implement risk mitigation measures such as dual sourcing and exit strategies.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with Procurement CoE, IT, Finance, Legal and Compliance to support major IT programs and governance bodies.
• Deliver savings and cost‑control initiatives, track budget impact and contribute to ESG integration in supplier selection.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Procurement, Engineering, Pharmacy or related field.
• 3‑6 years of hands‑on procurement experience, preferably in indirect spend and in a regulated/pharma environment.
• Proven ability to run sourcing events, negotiate contracts and manage global supplier relationships.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills, fluent in English.

Required skills

• IT category strategy development
• Supplier Relationship Management (SRM)
• P2P/S2C procurement processes
• Understanding of IT cost structures and licensing models
• Contract negotiation and compliance management