Category Manager

As a Category Manager, you will be responsible for driving the strategic sourcing and commercial management of third-party software and associated services within Nokia's Software & Data Server Hardware category. You will partner closely with business stakeholders, suppliers, and cross-functional teams to develop sourcing strategies, optimize supplier performance, and secure competitive commercial outcomes. The role requires a strong understanding of software procurement models, contract management, supplier negotiations, and cost competitiveness. You will play a key role in delivering business value while ensuring compliance, governance, and sustainable sourcing practices across the supplier ecosystem.

Must Have:

- Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Procurement, Engineering, Information Technology, or a related discipline.
- 10 years of relevant experience in strategic sourcing, category management, contract management, and commercial negotiations.
- Experience in software sourcing, software licensing models, SaaS, cloud services, or related commercial frameworks.
- Proven stakeholder management, communication, and influencing skills with the ability to collaborate across global and cross-functional teams.
- Proven analytical capabilities with experience in cost modeling, pricing analysis, supplier evaluation, and negotiation planning.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment while maintaining a strong focus on compliance, governance, and business outcomes.
- Familiar with supplier relationship management (SRM), procurement best practices, and category management methodologies.
- Experience working in a global matrix organization with exposure to cross-cultural stakeholder and supplier management.

Nice to Have:

- Familiarity with procurement platforms, Microsoft Office tools, data analytics, and AI-enabled sourcing solutions.