Global Category Sourcing Manager IT

About the job

As Global Category Sourcing Manager IT, you will work in close cooperation with the Global IT stakeholders to cover Danone business requirements and sourcing in the following areas of spend: Infrastructure (EDI, API, Infrastructure (IMS) Managed Services and AMS/Helpdesk Services), Telecommunication and Global Network. In parallel with the portfolio, you will be involved in strategic IT initiatives and will need experience in IT professional services.

The position will report to the Global Sourcing Manager IT & Data Infrastructure.

Category management

• Develop IT category strategies and roadmap with IT and data platform leads.
• Deliver value for money in accordance with procurement strategy and business plans.
• Structure a procurement approach to deliver continuous sustainable productivity per year and maximize business value.
• Develop or reinforce connection to market via suppliers, conferences, market studies, and benchmarking to continuously track best-in-class practices and market trends, capture technology innovation, and support Danone development and business digital transformation.
• Build a strong procurement toolkit and methodology on specific areas of spend and lead onboarding of zones and CBUs via focused communication on in-scope initiatives.

Sourcing

• Source and benchmark global category suppliers on a regular basis.
• Drive consolidation of spend and negotiation leverage with IT & Data teams.
• Launch RFI/RFQ to select, engage, and manage supply base for the global categories in responsibility.
• Ensure that Danoners can use recommended solutions in the best conditions of cost, quality and security.
• Work in collaboration with Legal partner to execute Support & Managed Services and drive an efficient contract management process.
• Ensure contract delivery and application of negotiated conditions, with a focus on IT SLA.
• Support IT & Data in purchasing process on critical spend and supplier relationship management.

Relationship Management

• Business Relationship Management: Develop strong relationships with global IT & Data teams and regional/local procurement.
• Able to assess IT & Data needs and recommend optimal sourcing solution.
• Supplier Relationship Management: Define and follow scorecard to monitor global supplier performance and drive continuous improvement plans.
• Animate suppliers’ performance with IT & Data, manage disputes, and drive innovation from suppliers.

Procurement Financials

• Lead cost optimization program on all sourcing categories in scope.
• Lead quarterly category review meetings with Finance and business partner.
• Track and monitor savings initiatives in collaboration with Finance business partner.
• Deliver cash improvements.

About you

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Business, Engineering, or a technical discipline.
• Master’s degree in Procurement or a related field is considered an asset.
• Minimum 8 years of relevant IT sourcing experience, including at least 3 years in IT Infrastructure (e.g. cloud, networks, data centers, hardware, managed services).
• Strong negotiator, able to lead complex IT Infrastructure RFQ deals and agreements.
• Autonomy and agility to manage multiple initiatives/projects in parallel.
• Fluent in English.

Key competencies & skills

• Strong interpersonal and facilitation skills to navigate complex organizational landscapes.
• Highly collaborative with the ability to work effectively with multiple teams and cultures, and to engage and challenge higher business stakeholders.
• Innovative and proactive in problem-solving and solution implementation.
• Strategic mindset and the ability to see the big picture.
• Strong collaborative and partnering mindset and business savviness.
• Forward and strategic thinker to influence user-centric design.
• Ability to influence stakeholders across seniority levels, to attract, mentor, and inspire talents.
• Ability to challenge the status quo and strive for continuous improvement.

About Danone

At Danone, you will be part of one of the largest Certified B Corps™ in the world.

Cycles & Procurement is right at the heart of making the Danone vision One Planet. Through what and how we source, we shape the world in which we operate and build the future for Danone. With our Cycles we protect and secure our key resources (Milk, Water and Plastic) and take a strategic approach to Procurement to support the business and social agenda of Danone. We secure competitive, sustainable resources, seek innovative solutions, and partner with suppliers aligned to our vision.

We offer

All Danoners receive a complete package of benefits. This includes a premium free pension, 30 days of annual leave (with the opportunity to purchase more), and a monthly health care allowance. In addition, you can get discount on your gym membership, and Danone offers initiatives focused on nutrition, physical, and mental health. Continuous learning opportunities are provided through workshops, online courses, and training sessions.