Director, Category Management - IT Services and Operations Outsourcing

Description: • Responsible for developing, managing, and executing the category and sourcing strategy for IT, Data, and Operations spend areas, overseeing an annual spend of over $100M • Develop and implement comprehensive category strategies for IT Services outsourcing that align with business objectives and drive value • Collaborate with the CIO, CDO, and Operations senior leaders to understand business direction and requirements • Define and execute sourcing strategies to ensure alignment with business goals and optimize cost, quality, and service delivery • Partner with strategic vendors and senior leadership to identify and execute technology-led opportunities to transform Business Operations, boost efficiency, and improve customer experience • Lead sourcing events and develop supplier negotiation strategies that optimize spend, leverage The Hartford’s buying power, focus on service quality/performance, and minimize risk exposure • Conduct complex, high-visibility negotiations with major vendors, negotiate key terms, and work with various stakeholders from legal, information protection, risk management, etc., to draft and execute contracts • Drive sourcing model maturity based on industry best practices and The Hartford’s operating model changes • Manage relationships with key vendors and ensure compliance with service level agreements • Conduct market analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and risks in the IT outsourcing space • Monitor and report on the performance of outsourcing arrangements, ensuring continuous improvement and value delivery • Utilize Procurement technology to facilitate the end-to-end Procurement Lifecycle Requirements: • Bachelor’s degree required • Minimum 8 years of experience in strategic sourcing, specifically in the IT and BPO Outsourcing category • Proven track record in Procurement with significant experience developing and executing category strategies, reviewing, analyzing, and negotiating contracts • Strong strategic and analytical skills with the ability to solve long-term and complex problems • Experience in leading market analysis and intelligence gathering across relevant categories to support successful strategy development • Extensive negotiation skills and best practices in contracting, including drafting and negotiating contract terms • Excellent relationship management skills, including the ability to work collaboratively with senior leadership in Procurement and across multiple Businesses and Corporate Functions • Exceptional ability to influence stakeholders and drive groups with divergent opinions toward effective, collaborative decisions • Exceptional supplier relationship and contract/conflict management skills • Excellent written and oral communication skills • Outcome-oriented with experience driving results in an environment of change • Strong packaging and presentation skills with the ability to analyze and explain pricing models and contract terms • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is a must; Coupa skills are a plus • Experience in IT Delivery and project management is a plus Benefits: • Short-term or annual bonuses • Long-term incentives • On-the-spot recognition Apply tot his job