IT Category Manager

Job Title: IT Category Manager
Primary Location: Northbrook, Illinois, Hybrid 3 days onsite
Position Type: W2 Contract, 10/6/25 - 12/31/25, 40 hrs/week

Overview
TalentFish is casting a line for an IT Category Manager with our premier client. This is a full-time, short-term W2 contract, hybrid role based in Northbrook, IL. The IT Category Manager is responsible for the strategic sourcing of enterprise technology by engaging with business and technology leaders, as well as suppliers of hardware, software, and managed services. This role drives multi-year, multi-million-dollar SaaS licensing negotiations, manages hardware arrangements, and oversees IT Professional Services in alignment with the technology roadmap.

What You Bring to the Role (Ideal Experience)

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business, Information Technology, or a related field

• 5+ years of experience developing and executing IT sourcing strategies across software, hardware, and IT Professional Services

• Experience negotiating with major software vendors such as Oracle, Salesforce, Microsoft, and ServiceNow, as well as IT consulting/contracting firms (e.g., Infosys, Client)

• Strong communication, documentation, and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across the organization and present to C-level executives

• Proven track record of delivering significant and sustainable cost reductions through sourcing strategy

• Hands-on experience analyzing and interpreting spend data to support sourcing initiatives

• Knowledge of standard commercial contracting practices and best-practice sourcing methodology

• CPM/CPSM or PMP certification is a plus

What You'll Do (Skills Used in this Position)

• Lead and manage the global technology procurement category portfolio, including enterprise software (on-premise, cloud, SaaS), hardware, communications platforms, and IT Professional Services

• Own all aspects of IT sourcing processes, including RFx, negotiations, legal agreements, governance approvals, and business case development

• Develop and maintain supplier relationships to deliver high levels of service, while maintaining best-in-class commercial terms and conditions

• Rationalize suppliers and consolidate buying power to simplify the supplier ecosystem

• Build and enhance relationships with key stakeholders across IT, Finance, Legal, Cybersecurity, and business segments to act as a trusted advisor

• Lead key sourcing initiatives and deliver process improvements or implement sourcing tools
  Ensure adherence to Global Sourcing policies and enforce compliance across the organization

Compensation Information

The expected salary range for this position is $50 - $81 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications. TalentFish is committed to pay transparency and equal opportunity. The salary range provided complies with applicable state and federal regulations.

This role requires authorization to work in the U.S. without current or future visa sponsorship.

All offers are contingent upon the completion of a background check, which may include but is not limited to: reference checks, education verification, employment verification, drug testing, criminal records checks, and any required certifications or compliance requirements based on the end client's background check policies and applicable laws.

TalentFish is an employee-owned company pioneering a new realm in talent acquisition. We are redefining IT staffing by evolving AI, video screening, and our unique platform. TalentFish focuses on providing the best employee, consultant, and client experience possible.
At TalentFish, we are an Equal Opportunity Employer; we embrace and encourage diversity!