Indirect Category Manager

$96,000 - $220,000/Yr

Itron - San Jose, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Hybrid - San Jose, CA

Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing

About the position

Itron is seeking an Indirect Technology Procurement Manager. The main focus will be IT/R&D Services with the ability to handle all related categories of Hardware, Software, and Telecom. This role will collaborate with Itron stakeholders to develop sourcing strategies across IT Services and R&D Services. The ability to effectively manage and negotiate sourcing projects within the IT and R&D space is required while supporting Itron stakeholders and managing supplier relationships. The successful candidate must have advanced Indirect Procurement experience in IT Service, R&D Services, Hardware, Software and Telecom. This candidate will oversee all source-to-contract activities: RFx, negotiations, supplier selection, contract management, and supplier relationship. The desired candidate is an excellent communicator, strategic procurement experience, and advanced Excel and PowerPoint presentation skills. The position will partner closely with key stakeholders to gain a strong understanding of their needs and develop appropriate sourcing strategies and category plans.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end Technology sourcing projects (e.g., RFx) to drive value, including all key steps such as strategy development, supplier negotiation, award recommendations, business case presentations, and supplier contract execution, leveraging an agile approach to drive efficiency in execution.
• Work collaboratively with Itron procurement leadership, suppliers, and Itron stakeholders to identify project pipelines, create category plans, and execute continuous value including process and service improvement projects across multiple Itron organizations.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with senior-level stakeholders in IT, HR, Finance, Legal, Sales, Marketing, etc., to validate and refine identified opportunities.
• Provide industry and supplier research, market intelligence, and financial analyses to Itron stakeholders; helping to identify target suppliers and guide project outcomes.
• Develop an effective framework to govern the strategy, project pipeline, and measure performance for the entire enterprise and across divisions.
• Provide category and market expertise to create a strategic portfolio of initiatives to achieve savings targets; includes documenting and tracking all savings generated.
• Perform spend analysis to identify strategic suppliers and target savings opportunities to pursue sourcing activity.
• Prepare and review contracts, bids, proposals, and vendor agreements for legal correctness, price, and acceptability of items to specifications (collaboration with legal in some instances).

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a related discipline (Business Management, MIS, Supply Chain, Human Resources, Finance, or similar).
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in strategic sourcing/category management.
• Experience in managing sourcing projects in the following areas: IT Services, R&D Services, Telecom.
• Advanced Excel, PowerPoint, and Process Management skills.
• Robust RFP management and supplier negotiation skills.
• Contract and vendor management.

Nice-to-haves

• Proven analytical skills in terms of numeric (e.g., spreadsheets) and text based (e.g., reading terms and conditions) analysis, converting information into tangible recommendations to our stakeholders.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills for interaction with all levels of the organization and the delivery of presentations.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to effectively manage multiple priorities and operate effectively in a fast past environment.
• Solid multi-phase project management skills.
• Ability to work independently, within a team across all levels and diverse cultures, and the ability to lead team projects.
• Prior consulting experience within the Technology Procurement space.
• This position may require limited travel.

Benefits

• Competitive benefit package including financial, social, health and wellbeing programs
• Paid vacation
• 401k matching
• Employee stock purchase program
• Hybrid work schedule
• Annual bonus program