Sourcing Category Manager Software & Digital Applications (m/f/x)

In this role you shape the global software procurement strategy and drive value through strategic supplier partnerships. You act as the interface between Procurement and IT, steering complex negotiations and contract governance for software, SaaS, cloud, and AI-enabled solutions. You will translate technical architectures into commercial frameworks and influence senior stakeholders across functions. You contribute to sustainable, innovative digital initiatives that accelerate the business while controlling total cost of ownership.

• Personalized onboarding experience
• Hi University learning programs
• Internal career opportunities
• Opportunities for internal mobility
• Exposure to global digital procurement initiatives

• Own the global software category strategy and 3–5 year roadmap aligned with digital and business goals
• Lead high-impact negotiations and contractual governance for software vendors and digital partners
• Integrate emerging technologies (AI, data-driven solutions) into sourcing strategy
• Drive TCO optimization and long-term value creation
• Coordinate cross-functional collaboration between Procurement, IT, Engineering, Manufacturing, R&D and Commercial functions
• Design and manage an executive-level vendor governance model with performance, risk, and compliance oversight
• Support cloud architecture, FinOps, and agile procurement processes
• Translate technical architectures into robust commercial and contractual frameworks
• Influence executive stakeholders and support AI investment decisions

• 5+ years of experience in Software Purchasing
• Strong mastery of complex contracts (software licensing, SaaS, cloud, AI-related clauses, IP, data protection)
• Solid understanding of SaaS, cloud-native architectures, IoT platforms, APIs, embedded software, and AI-enabled solutions
• Ability to bridge legal, commercial, and technical dimensions
• Executive presence and strong communication in international, matrixed environments
• Knowledge of GDPR, NIS-2 and related regulations

• Strategic negotiation
• Influential leadership
• Cross-functional collaboration
• SaaS and cloud licensing models
• Cloud-native architectures
• IoT platforms and APIs