Senior Procurement Manager – Technology

Senior Procurement Manager – Technology Overview

The Economist Group is seeking a seasoned Senior Procurement Manager to oversee technology spending and supplier management. This influential position involves managing approximately £13 million in technology expenditures and requires extensive expertise in technology procurement, strong commercial judgement, and the ability to collaborate effectively with senior stakeholders.

As the Senior Procurement Manager, you will serve as a trusted partner to the Technology teams, ensuring optimal value from suppliers and investments. Your role will involve building robust relationships across the organization, gaining a thorough understanding of the technology strategy, vendor landscape, and supplier lifecycles. You will leverage this knowledge to identify opportunities, anticipate future needs, and influence strategic decisions through commercial insights.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement technology sourcing and category strategies in partnership with internal stakeholders, creating plans aligned with organizational priorities.
• Lead complex sourcing activities to secure high-quality products and services on competitive terms.
• Understand the technology portfolio and vendor landscape to proactively anticipate requirements.
• Build trusted relationships with stakeholders to influence decisions and provide constructive challenges.
• Manage existing vendors and contracts proactively, identifying opportunities and risks ahead of renewals.
• Oversee vendor and supplier relationship management post-contract award to maximize value.
• Identify and deliver sustainable commercial savings while considering overall value and risk.
• Provide procurement guidance for lower-value purchases to assist colleagues.
• Collaborate with Finance, Legal, and other functions to enhance efficiency.
• Contribute to initiatives to strengthen the Procurement function.

Qualifications

• At least five years of experience in procurement, technology sourcing, and vendor management.
• Proven experience leading global sourcing activities with significant commercial benefits.
• Strong knowledge of technology categories and the ability to provide actionable recommendations.
• Excellent commercial judgement and negotiation skills.
• Experience in supplier and contract management with a focus on building productive relationships.
• Confidence in managing the full procurement lifecycle.
• Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills.
• Ability to simplify complex issues for diverse audiences.
• Understanding of commercial models to maximize value.
• Proactive approach to managing priorities and deadlines.
• Experience in a commercial or private-sector environment is essential.

To be successful in this role, you should have a keen interest in understanding the technology you are procuring and the problems it addresses. You will navigate between strategic discussions with senior stakeholders and detailed negotiations with suppliers, knowing when to challenge and when to listen. Above all, you will view Procurement as a business partner that can influence decisions, manage risks, and create value beyond the purchasing stage.

Working Arrangements

This position operates on a hybrid working pattern, requiring attendance in the office for three or more days each week.

Application Process

If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply through our application portal. We encourage the use of technology in the application process, but all information provided must accurately reflect your own experience and qualifications.

Degree Requirement: Not Specified

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