Sr. Category Manager - Telecom and IT Hardware & Software

Scientific Games:

Scientific Games is the global leader in lottery games, sports betting and technology, and the partner of choice for government lotteries. From cutting-edge backend systems to exciting entertainment experiences and trailblazing retail and digital solutions, we elevate play every day. We push game designs to the next level and are pioneers in data analytics and iLottery. Built on a foundation of trusted partnerships, Scientific Games combines relentless innovation, legendary performance, and unwavering security to responsibly propel the global lottery industry ever forward.

Position Summary

The successful candidate will possess comprehensive knowledge of procurement processes, exceptional negotiation skills, and a proven track record of developing and implementing successful category management strategies. Reporting to the Director of Procurement, the Senior Category Manager will be a key contributor in overseeing the sourcing, purchasing, and supplier management activities across assigned categories of spend.

Job Description - Indirect materials & services – Enterprise wide: Telecom (wireless and wireline) and IT Hardware & Software.

Identify Sourcing Opportunities – Actively search for and identify potential sourcing opportunities by analyzing spend data, market trends, and supplier landscapes.

Conduct Market Research – Gather and analyze market intelligence to stay informed about industry trends, supplier capabilities, pricing dynamics, and emerging technologies.

Supplier Evaluation & Selection – Assess and evaluate potential suppliers based on predetermined criteria such as financial stability, quality, capacity, delivery capabilities, and alignment of roadmap with Scientific Games’ strategic objectives.

Negotiation and Contracting – Lead or participate in negotiations with suppliers to obtain favorable terms, pricing, and contractual agreements while ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Total Cost Analysis – Conduct comprehensive cost analysis considering both direct and indirect costs, such as transportation, inventory carrying costs, and potential risks associated with sourcing decisions.

Supplier Relationship Management – Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to foster collaboration, address performance issues, explore cost-savings opportunities, and mitigate risks.

Supply Chain Risk Assessment – Identify potential risks in the supply chain and develop mitigation strategies to ensure continuity of supply, minimize disruptions, and protect the organization’s interests.

Drive Continuous Improvement – Regularly review and analyze sourcing process, procedures, and outcomes to identify areas for improvement, implement best practices, and optimize efficiency and effectiveness of the Procurement function.

Stakeholder Collaboration – Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations, engineering, legal, quality, regulatory, and commercial Sales & Marketing to align sourcing strategies with broader organizational goals and objectives.

Performance Monitoring & Reporting – Track and measure supplier performance against KPI’s, report on metrics such as cost savings & avoidance, quality improvements, and delivery reliability, and provide regular updates to stakeholders.

Qualifications

Required Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Information Technology, or a related field.
• ·7+ years’ experience in Category Management of commodity-based procurement; including index-based pricing agreements.
• Strong knowledge of and relationships with leading wireless and wired telecom carriers.
• Strategic cost management background including, but not limited to advanced cost modeling.
• Strong negotiation skills with a demonstrated ability to drive cost savings and favorable terms.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities with proficiency in utilizing data-driven insights to inform decisions.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Proficiency in relevant procurement