IT Category Manager (Contract)

Job Title: IT Category Manager (Contract)

ATR International is seeking an IT Category Manager on behalf of our client, Cadence Design Systems.

Location: San Jose, CA (onsite 4 days/week)
Type: 6-month contract (temporary)
Pay Rate: $50/hr

Role Overview

The IT Category Manager leads sourcing and procurement for IT hardware, software, and services — including servers, laptops, software tools, and data center support — for a leading high-tech organization. This role partners closely with R&D engineering, IT, and business teams to deliver cost savings, reduce risk, and ensure reliable supplier performance supporting IT and business operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead sourcing and procurement for IT categories supporting engineering and enterprise needs
• Develop and execute category strategies to optimize cost, quality, service, and risk
• Partner with R&D, IT, and cross-functional stakeholders to define requirements and specifications
• Conduct supplier evaluations, competitive sourcing, and contract negotiations
• Manage supplier relationships, performance, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Drive measurable savings, cost avoidance, and value creation
• Monitor market trends and benchmark pricing to inform sourcing decisions
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies and processes
• Support efficient Procure-to-Pay workflows, including PR creation and physical delivery tracking
• Improve visibility and accuracy across procurement and goods receipt processes

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field
• 5+ years of sourcing/procurement experience with strong exposure to IT categories
• Proven experience negotiating contracts and managing suppliers
• Strong business judgment balancing cost, risk, and operational needs
• Experience sourcing IT hardware, software, and SaaS
• Experience supporting technical or engineering stakeholders
• Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills
• Experience with procurement systems and sourcing tools

Preferred Experience

• Experience sourcing software, hardware, or data center services in a high-tech environment
• Familiarity with software licensing models and supplier agreements
• Track record of delivering cost savings and supplier performance improvements

What Success Looks Like

• Seamless support for engineering and IT procurement needs
• Improved supplier performance and reduced risk
• Consistent delivery of savings and cost efficiency
• Strong stakeholder satisfaction and partnership

ATR International is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

ATR International is a staffing and workforce solutions firm providing high‐quality talent across a wide range of industries, including technology, operations, and professional services.