Category Manager

Job Description

Job Description

We're Hiring: IT Sourcing & Procurement Category Lead

Are you a strategic sourcing expert who thrives on negotiating complex technology deals and driving enterprise-wide value? We are seeking an IT Sourcing & Procurement Category Lead to own and lead our global technology procurement portfolio.

In this role, you'll:

✅ Lead sourcing strategies across enterprise software, SaaS, hardware, managed services, communications platforms, and IT professional services

✅ Drive large-scale negotiations with industry-leading vendors including Oracle, Microsoft, Salesforce, ServiceNow, Accenture, Infosys, and more

✅ Deliver significant cost savings while balancing risk, governance, and business objectives

✅ Partner with senior leaders across IT, Finance, Legal, and Cybersecurity as a trusted strategic advisor

✅ Lead end-to-end RFx and RFP initiatives from strategy to award

We're looking for professionals with: ✔️ 5+ years of IT sourcing and category management experience

✔️ Strong vendor negotiation and contract management expertise

✔️ Experience managing complex procurement projects and stakeholder relationships

✔️ A proven track record of delivering measurable sourcing results

Hybrid Work Schedule (3 days in office)

Flexible hours with strong focus on employee growth and well-being

Inclusive culture that values innovation, collaboration, and professional development

This is a Contract position based out of Northbrook, IL.

The pay range for this position is $65.00 - $65.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a hybrid position in Northbrook,IL.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 31, 2026.

Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® Platinum Award winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on ziprecruiter.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.