Global Category Sourcing Manager (IT) at Schneider Electric USA, Inc in Chicago, Illinois

Job Description:

As the Global Category Sourcing Manager, you will have a significant impact on our telecommunications and networking sourcing strategy at a global level. Your primary responsibility will be to collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to ensure the availability of critical network infrastructure and telecommunication solutions. You will also focus on optimizing supplier relationships, reducing costs, and upholding the highest standards of quality and compliance.

What will you do?

• Develop and execute a comprehensive sourcing strategy for telecommunications and networking products and services that aligns with company objectives. Continuously monitor market trends, evaluate supplier capabilities, and identify opportunities for cost savings and innovation.


• Cultivate strong relationships with telecommunications and networking suppliers, negotiating contracts and service-level agreements (SLAs) to achieve the best value for the organization. Oversee supplier performance and conduct regular reviews.


• Identify opportunities for cost reduction and containment within the telecommunications and networking category while maintaining quality standards. Lead cost modeling and total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis.


• Ensure that all sourcing activities within the telecommunications and networking category adhere to legal and regulatory requirements, including data privacy. Uphold ethical sourcing practices.


• Collaborate closely with IT, engineering, legal, finance, and other relevant departments to align sourcing strategies with business needs. Communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels of the organization.


• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in telecommunications and networking sourcing. Share insights and recommendations with leadership to inform strategic decision-making.

What qualifications will make you successful?

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).


• 4+ years of experience in procurement and sourcing, with a strong focus on IT sourcing within the hardware, telecommunications, and networking domain.


• Excellent negotiation, contract management, and supplier relationship management skills.


• In-depth knowledge of telecommunications and networking procurement best practices, market dynamics, and industry trends.


• Exceptional analytical, conflict resolution, change management, project management, and problem-solving abilities.


• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, including influencing and persuasion.


• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.


• Extensive experience in negotiating, reviewing, and redlining IT contracts (Master Services Agreement, Statement of work, etc.).

We know skills and competencies show up in many ways and can be based on your life experience. If you do not necessarily meet all the requirements that are listed, we still encourage you to apply for the position.

Who will you report to? IT Hardware and Telecom Global Category Leader

Let us learn about you! Apply today.

Why us?

Schneider Electric is leading the digital transformation of energy management and automation. Our technologies enable the world to use energy in a safe, efficient and sustainable manner. We strive to promote a global economy that is both ecologically viable and highly productive.

€25.7bn global revenue

137 000+ employees in 100+ countries

45% of revenue from IoT

5% of revenue devoted for R&D

You must submit an online application to be considered for any position with us. This position will be posted until filled

It is the policy of Schneider Electric to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities in the areas of recruiting, hiring, training, transferring, and promoting all qualified individuals regardless of race, religion, color, gender, disability, national origin, ancestry, age, military status, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally protected characteristic or conduct. Concerning agencies: Schneider Electric does not accept unsolicited resumes and will not be responsible for fees related to such.As the Global Category Sourcing Manager, you will have a significant impact on our telecommunications and networking sourcing strategy at a global level. Your primary responsibility will be to collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to ensure the availability of critical network infrastructure and telecommunication solutions. You will also focus on optimizing supplier relationships, reducing costs, and upholding the highest standards of quality and compliance.

What will you do?

• Develop and execute a comprehensive sourcing strategy for telecommunications and networking products and services that aligns with company objectives. Continuously monitor market trends, evaluate supplier capabilities, and identify opportunities for cost savings and innovation.


• Cultivate strong relationships with telecommunications and networking suppliers, negotiating contracts and service-level agreements (SLAs) to achieve the best value for the organization. Oversee supplier performance and conduct regular reviews.


• Identify opportunities for cost reduction and containment within the telecommunications and networking category while maintaining quality standards. Lead cost modeling and total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis.


• Ensure that all sourcing activities within the telecommunications and networking category adhere to legal and regulatory requirements, including data privacy. Uphold ethical sourcing practices.


• Collaborate closely with IT, engineering, legal, finance, and other relevant departments to align sourcing strategies with business needs. Communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels of the organization.


• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in telecommunications and networking sourcing. Share insights and recommendations with leadership to inform strategic decision-making.

Apply Now