Senior Category Manager

JOB REQUIREMENTS: At Northwestern Mutual, we are strong, innovative and growing. We invest in our people. We care and make a positive difference. Summary Key contributor to the tech sourcing team with a focus on software, including Subscription, SaaS and On Premise. This role will lead efforts to optimize the supply base, generate cost savings and support digital transformation initiatives. In this role, you will develop/manage new and ongoing relationships with business partners and vendors to build long-term business alignment; influence those interacting with vendors on management and assessment of vendor performance; develop sourcing and negotiation strategy; lead vendor negotiations to achieve optimum results (i.e. cost, quality, , terms, etc.); anticipate client needs and recommend options that align with strategic direction; support strategic sourcing strategies to achieve return on investment and build longer term relationships; and support ongoing innovation and process improvement, identifying efficiencies in vendor-related processes and practices. Category Managers work in a collaborative environment with senior leaders and other internal stakeholders (e.g. Legal, Compliance, Risk). Excellent influencing, analytical, communication and presentation skills are a must. Primary Duties and Responsibilities Develops strong relationships with key stakeholders / groups for their respective category and with key providers in current and future markets. Acts as a trusted business advisor providing thought leadership and consistent customer service whilst delivering qualitative and quantitative value to the organization. Provides subject matter advise to internal and external stakeholder groups addressing current/future business needs demonstrating marketplace and category knowledge. Leads and influences stakeholder groups with sound and articulate business case recommendations (i.e. build vs buy strategy) with quantifiable financial benefits. Champion of Productivity efforts within stakeholder base. Provides consultation and guidance to business units around strategic sourcing and vendor management. Support sourcing strategies, contracting and governance to achieve return on investment and build longer term relationships. Provide vendor briefs to summarize vendor investments, risks, and opportunities. Demonstrates connected thinking and strategy beyond the category with pull through in understanding how to drive value within the category of responsibility and multiple functional areas Execute procurement/sourcing strategies for technology solutions such as SaaS, ERP, Software applications, and Services; drive standardization of processes and procedures, supplier selection processes and ongoing supplier management. Solid understanding of procurement/sourcing/category management methodology for information technology sourcing (IT) around all lines of... For full info follow application link. EEO/AA Employer/Vets/Disability ***** APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: Apply Online: ipc.us/t/6D2391AF8B3C4C5F Qualified females, minorities, and special disabled veterans and other veterans are encouraged to apply.