Senior Category Leader- Information Technology

Position Overview

This is a remote position with a hybrid schedule – you will be expected to report to the East Bay area office 3 days per week later this year. COMMODITY MANAGERS, SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGERS, BUYERS and CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGERS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED. As the Category Leader, you will collaborate with internal clients and suppliers to develop mutually beneficial total cost solutions through procurement, strategic sourcing, contract management, and supplier relationship management. This role plays a key part in developing major contracts, supplier negotiations, and the Supplier Relationship Management and Scorecard process. Compensation includes Salary plus Paid Pension Plan, 401K Match, and full medical benefits. The work location is hybrid remote in Oakland, CA 94605.

Key Responsibilities

• Acts as subject matter expert for a specific procurement category.
• Develops and implements category plans and sourcing strategies for medium complexity categories to optimize cost, mitigate risk, and ensure supply continuity.
• Leads competitive bidding processes including RFPs, RFIs, and negotiations to secure best-value agreements.
• Negotiates, drafts, and manages contracts ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, corporate policies, and industry standards.
• Builds and sustains mutually beneficial relationships with category suppliers, including conducting regular performance reviews and fostering innovation and continuous improvement.
• Partners with cross-functional teams to develop sourcing and negotiation strategies for medium complexity spend categories.
• Monitors industry trends, supplier landscapes, and regulatory changes to drive informed strategic sourcing initiatives.
• Conducts market research and supplier risk analysis to ensure the financial health of existing and potential suppliers.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related discipline OR equivalent experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in developing strategic sourcing strategies for IT Procurement / Professional Services.
• Proven ability to lead high-value negotiations, develop contract structures, and achieve favorable outcomes.
• Strong analytical skills with experience in spend analytics, cost modeling, and digital procurement tools.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and SAP or similar software.

Benefits & Perks

• Pay: $125,000.00 - $165,000.00 per year
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance