Lead Category Manager - Software (Remote, US)

Lumen is the trusted network for AI. We’re transforming how businesses connect, secure, and scale in an AI-driven world.By connecting people, data, and applications quickly, securely, and effortlessly, we help organizations move faster and unlock what’s next.At Lumen, people power progress. Our culture is built on teamwork, trust, and transparency, giving you the flexibility, support, and opportunity to make a lasting impact. We’re looking for top-tier talent ready to take on the challenge. Join us in building the future.The RoleThe Lead Category Manager oversees the strategy, sourcing, negotiation, and contracting of highly complex internal use software at Lumen. The Lead Category Manager is responsible for developing and implementing procurement strategies that align with the business objectives and optimize the value and performance of the suppliers. This position will manage Lumen’s most complex and visible software providers at Lumen, and will play a key role in our organization’s success. You will monitor market trends, analyze spend data, define category and negotiation strategies, identify risks and opportunities, promote diversity and sustainability, and manage critical supplier relationships and performance. Work LocationThis is a work from home position within the U.S.The Main ResponsibilitiesCategory analysis & monitoring Conduct internal & external analysis of the software industry (e.g., spend at sub-category, supplier & business unit level; market conditions with supply/demand, should-cost modeling) – coordinate with internal Reporting & Analytics to leverage off-the-shelf analytics. Track changes in supplier landscape, market dynamics, & innovation opportunities within category. Ensure category spend across all business segments is represented. Prepare content for and lead strategy discussions up to C-level.Category strategy & planning Incorporate findings from analyses into annual category strategy plan, in addition to business unit goals & budget targets. Identify and pursue levers to drive savings via RFPs, negotiations, demand management, value engineering, etc.. Build a maintain a comprehensive “Category Plan” outlining all key considerations in the software category. Contracting Manage high-complexity contracts and assist with “handing off” tactical contracts to Contracting Excellence team. Utilize pre-approved supplier contracts based on spend threshold / risk with standardized legal terms.RFX strategy & planning Develop RFX strategy within category to drive savings. Manage high-complexity RFX events, work with the RFX Execution team to handle tactical execution.Stakeholder relationship management Use ‘seat at the table’ with the business to align on strategic agenda & understand upcoming needs. Establish defined calendar for key meetings to track progress / drive issue resolution in category (e.g., part of staff meetings, conduct monthly / quarterly planning sessions, engage cross-functional team on budget targets).Supplier relationship management Own relationships as primary point of contact for suppliers inside your category, including orchestrating interactions & preparing with business stakeholders on supplier communications beforehand (e.g., annual target setting, QBRs on performance & SLAs, joint initiative pursuits). Manage/monitor supplier performance on a regular basis; provides constructive feedback to the supplier for continuous improvement. Identify strategic suppliers & tier into segments based on spend, business criticality, and market dynamics that need to be tracked closely by procurement. Identify situations where Lumen has limited suppliers in a key category, or has multiple suppliers that are impacted by the same risk factors, and identify alternatives.What We Look For in a CandidateBachelor's degree and or relevant experience. Previous experience in software procurement is highly preferred. This includes of an understanding of best practices in software procurement, and knowledge of industry trends. Minimum 8 plus years of related experience. Demonstrated exceptional interpersonal and communications skills useful for managing senior level internal relationships, and complex suppliers. Experience overseeing supplier relationships for an assigned set of products and/or services including regular supplier performance reviews and discussions. Proven background in negotiating high complexity, and high dollar contract negotiations in a fast-paced environment. Ability to work independently and in a team environment; self-motivated; strong analytical and problem-solving skills; ability to process large amounts of often complex data; detail oriented. Intermediate to advanced professional experience in reviewing contract terms. Strong to expert knowledge of procurement systems such as SAP and Ariba. Excellent time management and organizational skills. Experience working in a fast-paced, high visibility environment with frequently shifting priorities. Advanced Micro