Category Lead

Job Purpose

You will be responsible for driving procurement processes and initiatives across Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT). In this role, you will own the end-to-end category strategy, ensuring the efficient and value-driven acquisition of critical hardware, software, and services that support our operational excellence and digital transformation. Through strategic and operational sourcing, as well as category management, you will deliver impactful procurement outcomes that contribute to the organisation’s long-term goals.

Responsibilities

• Lead sourcing strategies and category plans for IT and OT, including market analysis and supplier segmentation to optimise value and reduce risk.
• Manage end-to-end procurement of hardware, software, and services, ensuring alignment with business needs and strategic goals.
• Partner with business units to understand requirements, influence sourcing decisions, and drive alignment in tenders and contracts.
• Oversee vendor relationships and contract lifecycle, ensuring compliance, performance, and strategic improvements.
• Monitor procurement outcomes, establish KPIs and SLAs, and drive continuous improvement and risk mitigation.
• Stay updated on industry trends and innovations to identify opportunities for cost savings and process enhancements.

Qualifications & Work Experience

• Degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Software Engineering, or a closely related technical field
• Minimum 2 years of relevant experience in an IT/OT engineering or procurement/sourcing role is preferred
• Fresh graduates are welcome to apply, as training and development opportunities will be provided.

Skills

Technical skills include:

• Skilled in developing, interpreting, and negotiating complex deals with a strong grasp of total cost of ownership (TCO) and value-based procurement.
• Familiar with Ariba and SAP (MM modules) is an advantage.

Generic skills include:

• Ability negotiates and influence effectively, achieving strategic outcomes in complex environments.
• Strong analytical skills with a track record of driving quality improvements and strategic decisions.
• Capable of handling evolving technical challenges, especially in IT and OT domains, using broad instructions and sound judgment.
• Effective in building strategic relationships with vendors, partners, and regulators; able to influence and collaborate across functions.
• Familiarity with contractual law, international trade law, financial regulations, and outsourcing/vendor risk management is a plus.
• Experience in the public transport industry is beneficial.