Global Category Manager (Networks, Telecom, Infrastructure & InfoSec)

Life Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew, we craft and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living!

IT procurement isn’t just about cost savings—it’s about driving innovation, managing risk, and ensuring we stay ahead in an ever-evolving tech landscape. If you’re an experienced IT procurement professional who thrives on complex negotiations, supplier strategy, and delivering commercial impact at a global scale, this is the role for you.

We’re looking for a Global Category Manager to lead strategic sourcing across IT hardware, Data Centres, Infrastructure, Networks & Telecoms, and services. This is a high-visibility role, handling multimillion-pound contracts with Tier 1 tech vendors. This role will develop category strategies, drive outstanding RFX processes, and work closely with VPs, IT leaders, Finance and Legal to ensure our IT investments are commercially sound and future-proof.

What will you be doing?

• Owning and implementing global IT category strategies, balancing cost efficiency, service excellence, and risk mitigation.
• Running sophisticated RFX processes, from defining requirements to supplier selection, negotiation, and contract execution.
• Handling key supplier relationships, including licensing agreements with tech vendors.
• Negotiating large-scale, multi-year IT contracts with a deep understanding of licensing models, pricing structures, and IT service agreements.
• Partnering with IT, Finance, and Legal teams to align procurement strategies with business needs.
• Driving compliance with procurement policies and governance frameworks.
• Identifying and implementing best practices in IT procurement and category management.

What will you need to be successful?

You’ll need strong IT procurement experience, with expertise in IT sourcing, including Data Centres, Hardware, Networks, and Telecom services. A CIPS qualification or a relevant degree is a bonus.

What will really set you apart is your ability to navigate high-value contract negotiations with major IT vendors and service providers, along with deep knowledge of RFX processes, commercial modelling, and procurement analytics. Coupled with excellent stakeholder management skills.

At Smith+Nephew we offer

Inclusion, Diversity and Equity: Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving on Diversity, Learn more about our Employee Inclusion Groups on our website 

Your Future: annual bonus, life insurance, company stock saving plan 

Work/Life Balance: paid volunteering hours, flexible approach 

Your Wellbeing: private health care with dental care package, multisport card/my benefit platform 

Flexibility: possibility of working in hybrid model 

Training: Hands-On, Team-Customized, subsidies for language classes, certifications and postgraduate studies 

Extra Perks: referral bonus, recognition program, mentoring program 

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