Category Manager, IT Hardware Compute, GPO

Google•Chicago, IL

7d•$136,000 - $196,000

About The Position

In the Google Procurement Organization (GPO), your aim is to unlock the value for Google to reinvest in what matters most. You will do this by bringing velocity, efficiency, and security to buying at Google, while partnering deeply across Google to deliver solutions fit for purpose. As a centralized organization operating in a high complexity environment, we bring "one voice" to stakeholders and suppliers to ensure the best outcomes. Our organization fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation while providing opportunities for ongoing career growth and development. As a part of the Google Procurement Organization, the Category Management team, you will partner closely with key stakeholders to help shape and implement procurement strategies. You will be responsible for developing and driving holistic category strategies, managing stakeholder relationships, and bringing excellence to Google-wide sourcing, supplier, and contract management. In this role, Category Manager supports the IT Compute Category, you will be responsible for pioneering innovative category and sourcing strategies, cultivating strategic supplier relationships, and optimizing spend categories through data-driven insights to unlock value for Google.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Finance, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
7 years of experience in sourcing, category management, or procurement roles, with a focus on managing indirect spend categories, with experience within IT-related categories.
4 years of experience in logistics and supply chain, working with distributors, resellers or OEMs.
Experience with contracts, RFx processes, negotiations, and supplier evaluations within the IT Hardware categories (i.e. Workstations, Desktops, Laptops, etc.).

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree or certifications in Procurement, Supply Chain Management, or related field.
Experience in developing and managing key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to measure category performance and track progress towards strategic goals.
Familiarity with AI engines, experience in automating tasks, utilize AI tools to improve effectiveness.
Proficiency in analyzing procurement data and market intelligence for current trends, utilize best practices in benchmarking to ensure we maximize value.
Strong project management skills, with the ability to lead strategic projects or initiatives aimed at improving procurement processes, implementing new strategies, or driving innovation within the category.

Responsibilities

Support the development and execution of category strategies aligned with organizational objectives for assigned indirect spend categories.
Build and maintain relationships with suppliers to ensure quality service delivery and alignment with organizational objectives.
Facilitate the execution of sourcing strategies, RFx processes, negotiations, and supplier evaluations within designated categories.
Analyze spending patterns, market trends, and identify value opportunities within the category.
Evaluate procurement data, generate reports, and provide insights to support decision-making and performance evaluation within the category.