Global Category Manager – IS/IT Sourcing. ABB Robotics (m/f/d) (flexible location – any ABB Robotics site)

This role sits within ABB’s Robotics business, a leading global robotics company. We’re entering an exciting new chapter as we’ve announced the plan for SoftBank Group to acquire ABB Robotics. SoftBank is a globally recognized technology group and investor/operator focused on AI, robotics, and next-generation computing.  By joining us now, you’ll be part of a pioneering team shaping the future of robotics—working alongside world-class experts in a fast-moving, innovation-driven environment.

In this role, you will be part of a dynamic, globally distributed team delivering local, regional and global indirect IS/IT Sourcing support across the globe.
The work model for the role is hybrid.
You will be mainly accountable for:

• Leading end-to-end sourcing processes across multiple Information Systems (IS) categories (e.g. IT Services, Software & SaaS, Infrastructure, Telecommunications, and Print), ensuring alignment with ABB’s sourcing policies and business requirements.

• Defining and executing category strategies and sourcing plans, including RFx activities, commercial and legal negotiations, and vendor selection.

• Driving cost savings, cost avoidance, and overall value creation through effective contract management, performance tracking, and market benchmarking.

• Collaborating cross-functionally with Legal, Tax, Security, Data Protection, Finance, and other subject matter experts to ensure contract compliance and risk mitigation.

• Facilitating the full contract lifecycle – from creation and negotiation to amendments, renewals, and terminations – while maintaining accurate documentation in contract management systems.

• Leading key meetings and negotiation sessions with internal stakeholders and external vendors, acting as a trusted sourcing advisor.

• Monitoring market trends, vendor innovations, and pricing dynamics to inform sourcing decisions and enhance category performance.

• Supporting continuous improvement initiatives to optimize procurement operations and enhance stakeholder satisfaction across IS domains.

• You have 5+ years of experience in IS sourcing or procurement, with a strong track record in commercial and legal negotiations — especially with major global IT suppliers.
• You are highly skilled in managing IT sourcing categories such as software, infrastructure, telecommunications, or IT services, and possess a strong understanding of related contracting processes.
• You bring hands-on experience working within European markets and navigating complex, matrixed organizations.
• Degree in Supply Chain Management, IT, Business Administration, or a related field.
• You are fluent in English (written and spoken); knowledge of additional European languages is considered a plus.
• You are passionate about stakeholder engagement and excel in negotiation, communication, and relationship building across functions.
• You demonstrate analytical thinking, strong decision-making ability, and a strategic mindset when managing competing priorities.
• You thrive in dynamic environments and are adaptable to change, capable of delivering results while managing multiple projects simultaneously.

Your benefits:

• Enjoy a stable employment in a company with a long history in innovation and technology.
• Collaborate with experienced experts in an international environment.
• Seize individual development and training opportunities, from job specific to soft skills.
• Private medical care (including offers for family members) and life insurance.
• Receive attractive remuneration based on your experience and skills, and other financial benefits, such as annual bonus and internal share purchase program.
• Choose from various benefits in kind, ranging from healthy lifestyle offerings, to knowledge sharing, to teambuilding activities.