Global Category Leader, IT Software

Overview

In this role you will define and execute the global software procurement strategy across enterprise apps, SaaS, and AI-enabled tech, partnering with IT, Digital and business leaders to maximise value while balancing innovation, risk and governance. You will lead through others as an M2, coaching category managers and shaping supplier strategy to enable Smith+Nephew’s RISE ambitions. As Procurement’s AI Champion, you’ll guide teams on AI governance, contracts and risk in technology-enabled solutions. This is a strategic, cross-functional leadership role focused on value creation and capability building.

Pay / Benefits

• Generous annual bonus and pension schemes
• Save As You Earn share options
• Hybrid working model
• Private health and dental plans
• Healthcare cash plan and life assurance
• Paid holidays and volunteering hours

Responsibilities

• Define and execute the global software category strategy aligned to business priorities and digital transformation goals
• Build a multi-year value pipeline focusing on cost optimization, rationalisation, demand management, risk reduction and innovation
• Lead complex negotiations with strategic software suppliers and manage major commercial agreements
• Act as Procurement’s AI Champion, guiding governance around AI-enabled software and emerging technologies
• Partner with IT, Digital, Data & Analytics, Cybersecurity, Finance and Legal as a trusted advisor
• Drive cross-category IT optimization and consolidation initiatives
• Lead, coach and develop the software procurement team and build capability in AI-enabled procurement
• Promote data-driven decision making and adoption of AI-enabled procurement tools
• Ensure governance around software licensing, data rights, and cybersecurity compliance

Key requirements

• Significant experience in software procurement or technology sourcing at leadership level
• Proven track record in developing and executing category strategies with measurable business value
• Experience leading complex software negotiations and global supplier relationships
• Strong stakeholder management and ability to influence senior leaders
• Experience leading and developing high-performing teams
• Knowledge of AI-enabled software, data governance and responsible AI principles
• Understanding of AI and emerging digital technologies’ impact on procurement
• Experience with governance, risk management or compliance for technology suppliers
• Experience collaborating with IT, Legal, Cyber Security, Privacy and Compliance functions

• leadership
• stakeholder management
• commercial acumen
• software procurement
• SaaS licensing models
• AI-enabled procurement practices

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