Category Management Advisor

The Category Management Advisor is a strategic sourcing professional responsible for end-to-end sourcing and contracting for technology solutions across Cigna, including software and software-as-a-service (SaaS).

This role drives sourcing strategies globally, manages competitive processes, negotiates agreements, and recommends suppliers that best align with business objectives.
You will collaborate with internal stakeholders-including Business, IT, Legal, Information Protection, and Privacy-to negotiate complex technology agreements.

The ideal candidate has experience managing multiple negotiations simultaneously, adapting to dynamic requirements tied to strategic business and IT objectives, and influencing stakeholders at various management levels.

Responsibilities:


* Lead and manage the sourcing process from initiation to execution, ensuring stakeholder engagement and alignment.


* Develop category strategies considering market trends, spend analysis, strategic importance, and geographic factors.


* Drive sourcing initiatives across the organization, managing multiple stakeholders and competing priorities.


* Create timelines and organize cross-functional teams to support negotiations and contracting.


* Identify and execute sourcing opportunities that deliver cost savings, risk reduction, improved business outcomes, and enhanced service.


* Draft, review, and revise contracts, SLAs, Statements of Work, and Change Orders to optimize benefits and minimize risk.


* Mentor teams to understand enterprise-wide category needs and evaluate best-in-class suppliers.


* Monitor market conditions and cost drivers to forecast trends and inform sourcing strategies.


* Promote continuous improvement in sourcing and procurement processes.


* Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, stakeholders, and internal business partners.


* Act as a change agent and mentor, demonstrating adaptability and resilience.


* Provide analysis and insights to support decision-making and category initiatives.


* Drive total cost of ownership reductions and business improvements through supplier partnerships.


* Establish yourself as a trusted advisor to business units.

Qualifications:


* Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field preferred.


* 5+ years of relevant experience in sourcing or procurement.


* Proven experience negotiating software and SaaS contracts.


* Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.


* Excellent verbal and written communication skills.


* Demonstrated leadership ability to influence and motivate cross-functional teams.


* Highly organized with strong time management and attention to detail.


* Skilled in structured problem-solving and fact-based negotiation tactics.


* Strong analytical, interpersonal, and collaboration skills.


* Knowledge of procurement and outsourcing principles,...