Category and Supplier Manager

Members of the Finance organization at select locations will generally be expected to follow a hybrid work model, which includes two days of in-office attendance each week, with limited exceptions.

Application window expected to close on 9 / 5 / 2024.

What You'll Do

We are seeking an innovative applicant with software, SaaS and Cloud sourcing experience. You are the relationship owner between Cisco and our strategic suppliers.

You will own a category or segment of specific technology suppliers by supporting the end-to-end procurement process, including RFX, supplier onboarding, supplier risk assessments, contract negotiation, PO / PR review and approval, payment verification, and ongoing contract / license compliance.

You'll work closely with requestors and team members to negotiate commercial and contractual terms and conditions, SLAs (Availability, Performance, Downtime, etc.

in strategic software agreements that are used globally across various Cisco functions and businesses. When it comes to category strategies, you will develop and maintain a strategy that includes category elements of market / industry trends, benchmarking, spend analysis, preferred supplier categorization, supplier performance, and optimization.

In addition to these sourcing activities, you'll also get the opportunity to support critical initiatives and transformation projects in relation to software savings, multi-year strategies / roadmaps, process improvement, business transformation, and acquisition integration.

Who You'll Work With

You will be part of a Global Procurement Team, working cross-functionally company-wide with IT, Engineering, Product Management, Sales, Security, Finance, Legal, and other Supply Chain / Procurement teams.

Who You Are

The ideal candidate possesses a combination of skills that includes category management, contract negotiation, supplier management, intuition for business, technical knowledge, and strong communication skills.

You can formulate a Category / Commodity Strategy and successfully lead it to execution.

You are highly collaborative and have a proven track record of influence partners and team members at all levels. This position is an excellent opportunity for someone who has worked closely with software suppliers, can interpret license agreements, and is excited to participate in varying levels of business operations.

Minimum Qualifications :

Bachelors or Master's degree or equivalent experience in Software Engineering, Business, Supply Chain, or Law

7+ years validated experience with technology related sourcing in the areas of Software, SaaS, Cloud, Data Center, Telecom, or other related categories.

Understanding of Technology market trends within the Software and Cloud arena.

Understanding of the End-to-End Procurement process and sourcing fundamentals.

Familiarity with software license agreements or contracts

Knowledge of software licensing and contract compliance

Ability to demonstrate core foundational skills in the following areas : Cost accounting, data management, presentation, and effective communications

Preferred Qualifications :

Project management / multi-discipline experience preferred

Why Cisco

WeAreCisco, where each person is unique, but we bring our talents to work as a team and make a difference powering an inclusive future for all.

We embrace digital, and help our customers implement change in their digital businesses. Some may think we're "old" (36 years strong) and only about hardware, but we're also a software company.

And a security company. We even invented an intuitive network that adapts, predicts, learns and protects. No other company can do what we do - you can't put us in a box!

But "Digital Transformation" is an empty buzz phrase without a culture that allows for innovation, creativity, and yes, even failure (if you learn from it.)

Day to day, we focus on the give and take. We give our best, give our egos a break, and give of ourselves (because giving back is built into our DNA.

We take accountability, bold steps, and take difference to heart. Because without diversity of thought and a dedication to equality for all, there is no moving forward.

So, you have colorful hair? Don't care. Tattoos? Show off your ink. Like polka dots? That's cool. Pop culture geek? Many of us are.

Passion for technology and world changing? Be you, with us!