Senior Manager Procurement - Data & AI (m/w/d)

In Germany - Berlin | Bonn | Cologne | Frankfurt/Main | Hamburg | Munich

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced IT Sourcing Manager to join our team. The primary responsibility of this role is to develop and implement strategic sourcing initiatives for the IT and Technology category at Simon-Kucher globally, ensuring the acquisition of high-quality IT Services, Software and Hardware at the best possible value.

What Makes Us Special

• Advance your career with exciting professional opportunities in our thriving company with a startup feel.
• Innovate by transforming ideas into cutting‑edge AI products, championing AI and Generative AI through creative experimentation to push boundaries and deliver transformative solutions.
• Enhance your technical expertise while working on AI and GenAI products that drive business growth, create positive impact, and truly matter to our clients.
• Voice your unique ideas in a corporate culture defined by openness and integrity.
• Enjoy the opportunity to work from abroad (workation).
• Feel at home working with our helpful, enthusiastic colleagues who have great team spirit.
• Broaden your perspective with our extensive training curriculum and learning programs (e.g. LinkedIn Learning).
• Speak your mind in our holistic feedback and development processes (e.g. 360‑degree feedback).
• Satisfy your need for adventure with our opportunities to live and work abroad in one of our many international offices.
• Enjoy our benefits, such as hybrid working, daycare allowance, corporate discounts, and wellbeing support (e.g. Headspace).
• Unwind in our break areas where you can help yourself to the healthy snacks and beverages provided.
• See another side of your coworkers at our frequent employee events and highly anticipated World Meeting and Holiday Party.

How You Will Create An Impact

• Develop and execute strategic sourcing strategies for AI, SaaS, Big Data, and Knowledge Management categories to optimize cost, business value, solution quality, and supplier performance.
• Conduct market research and supplier analysis to identify emerging AI‑technologies, innovative vendors, licensing models, and market trends across AI platforms, SaaS applications, data ecosystems, and knowledge management solutions.
• Partner with Technology, Data & AI teams, and Business Leadership to align procurement strategies for AI, SaaS, Big Data, and Knowledge Management with enterprise priorities, transformation goals, and business needs.
• Manage the contract portfolio for AI, SaaS, Big Data, and Knowledge Management suppliers to identify consolidation opportunities, upcoming renewals, commercial optimization potential, and areas for standardization.
• Lead end‑to‑end supplier identification, evaluation, selection, and contract negotiations for AI, SaaS, data, and knowledge management solutions, securing favorable commercial, legal, security, and service terms.
• In close collaboration with IT and Business stakeholders, manage supplier relationships and performance through regular business reviews, KPI tracking, governance structures, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Drive procurement excellence and continuous improvement across the sourcing lifecycle for digital and data‑related categories, including demand management, vendor rationalization, and process efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with internal policies, procurement standards, data privacy requirements, information security expectations, and relevant regulatory obligations throughout the procurement lifecycle.
• Monitor and mitigate risks related to AI, SaaS, Big Data, and Knowledge Management suppliers, including data protection, cybersecurity, operational resilience, financial stability, intellectual property, and regulatory exposure.

About You

• Around 7 years’ proven experience in IT procurement, strategic sourcing, and supplier management roles, preferably in a multinational organization.
• Deep understanding of IT products and services, including hardware, software, cloud services, and telecommunications. Knowledge of contract law, procurement regulations, and ethical sourcing practices.
• Demonstrated track record of successfully managing complex procurement projects and driving cost savings initiatives. Proficiency in procurement software, ERP systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data, conduct financial analysis, and make data‑driven decisions.
• Excellent Project Management, negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment. Proactive, results‑oriented, and adaptable to change with a continuous improvement mindset.