IT Category Leader, Expert

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Job Title: IT Category Leader, Expert
Location: Oakland, CA (Hybrid Tuesday – Thursday in Oakland office)
Job Type: Direct Hire 
 

Our client is seeking a Category Lead – Expert to play a critical role in optimizing sourcing and procurement strategy across medium-complexity categories. This individual contributor role requires strong IT category expertise, supplier relationship management, and advanced negotiation skills. The Category Lead will act as a subject matter expert, leading category planning, supplier negotiations, and contract management to deliver cost efficiency, supplier innovation, and risk mitigation.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as subject matter expert for assigned categories or services.

• Develop and execute category plans and sourcing strategies for medium-complexity categories that optimize cost, mitigate risk, and ensure supply continuity.

• Lead competitive bidding processes, including RFPs, RFIs, and negotiations, to secure best-value agreements.

• Negotiate, draft, and manage contracts in alignment with regulatory requirements, corporate policies, and industry standards.

• Build and maintain strategic relationships with category suppliers, conducting performance reviews, fostering collaboration, and driving continuous improvement and innovation.

• Partner with cross-functional stakeholders to align sourcing and negotiation strategies with business needs.

• Monitor industry and market trends, supplier landscapes, and regulatory changes to inform strategic sourcing initiatives.

• Conduct market research and supplier risk assessments to evaluate financial health and supply resilience.

Candidate Profile

Must-Have Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or related discipline (or equivalent experience).

• 6+ years of sourcing/procurement experience.

• Proven ability to lead high-value negotiations, develop contract structures, and deliver favorable outcomes.

• Strong analytical skills with expertise in spend analysis, cost modeling, and digital procurement tools.

• Experience collaborating with stakeholders, influencing business decisions, and driving results in procurement.

• Proficiency in leading cross-functional teams on medium-complexity sourcing initiatives.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

Desired Qualifications

• 8+ years of procurement, sourcing, or supply chain experience (utility, energy, or infrastructure sector preferred).

• Experience sourcing in Consulting/Professional Services, Construction/Related Services, or Materials.

• MBA or advanced degree in business or related discipline.

• Lean Six Sigma (LSS), PMP, or ISM CPSM certification (or similar).

• Knowledge of procurement systems (e.g., Ariba, SAP).

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Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Gravity IT Resources is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.