IT Sr Category Manager

Job Description:

Providing for loved ones, planning rewarding retirements, saving enough for whatever lies ahead - our policyholders count on us to be there when it matters most. It's a big ask, but it's one that we have the power to deliver when we work together. We collaborate and innovate - pushing one another to transform not just Pacific Life, but the entire industry for the better. Why? Because it's the right thing to do. Pacific Life is more than a job, it's a career with purpose. It's a career where you have the support, balance, and resources to make a positive impact on the future - including your own.

We're actively seeking a talented IT Sr. Category Manager to join our Global Procurement Solutions team in Newport Beach, CA.

As an IT Sr. Category Manager, you'll play a key role in Pacific Life's growth and long-term success by supporting execution of key strategic sourcing initiatives set forth by sourcing managers within the Procurement Function. You'll be responsible for supporting execution of spend and supply/market analysis, strategy development, execution of RFx activities, vendor evaluation/selection, negotiation of terms and conditions and bid award activities. If you're an expert in strategy and sourcing who's a self-starter who's comfortable with ambiguity, able to think big without overlooking minute details, and who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, you're perfect for our team.

How you'll help move us forward:

• Strategic Sourcing & Category Management
  • Develop and execute sourcing strategies for software, cloud, SaaS/PaaS, AI, IT consulting, hardware, telecom, and networking categories,
  • Conduct market research, benchmarking, and analysis to inform category strategies.
  • Lead RFx initiatives and contract negotiations to maximize value, reduce costs, and mitigate risk.
  • Redline contracts to ensure compliance with corporate policies and favorable terms.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders and senior leadership.
  • Partner with Vendor Management to define and monitor SLAs and KPIs.
  • Drive alignment and compliance with category strategies across the organization.
  • Lead cross-functional teams and projects as needed.
• Analytics & Decision Support
  • Perform advanced quantitative analysis to assess financial impacts and category performance.
  • Interpret complex data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions to optimize procurement processes.
  • Develop models to improve cost efficiency and business outcomes.
• Innovation & Cost Improvement
  • Champion the adoption of new technologies and best practices to enhance procurement effectiveness.
  • Identify and implement opportunities for process improvement and innovation.
  • Ensure procurement activities comply with regulatory requirements and company policies.
• Global Sourcing
  • Manage international vendors and global sourcing initiatives.

The experience you bring:

• Bachelor's Degree required; MBA or advanced degree preferred
• 10+ years of hands-on Strategic Sourcing experience
• Proven expertise in Category Management for software, cloud, AI, VAR management and IT Consulting , and related technologies.
• Experience with ERP, GRC and Procurement systems ( e.g., Coupa, Archer, PeopleSoft).
• Advanced proficiency in Excel; strong skills in PowerPoint and Word.
• Strong mathematical and analytical skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and solve complex problems in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent interpersonal, leadership, and communications skills.
• Demonstrated success in stakeholder management and vendor negotiations.
• Experience in risk management, compliance, and global strategic sourcing.

What makes you stand out:

• Procurement certifications (e.g., CPSM, CIPS).
• Experience in emerging technologies such as RPA, AI, and blockchain.
• Familiarity with business intelligence tools (e.g., Tableau, Alteryx).
• Track record of managing large strategic technology vendors
• Deep knowledge of RFx processes and contract lifecycle management.

You can be who you are.
People come first here. We're committed to an inclusive workforce. Learn more about how we create a welcoming work environment at www.pacificlife.com. What's life like at Pacific Life? Visit Instagram.com/lifeatpacificlife.

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Base Pay Range:

The base pay range noted represents the company's good faith minimum and maximum range for this role at the time of posting. The actual compensation offered to a candidate will be dependent upon several factors, including but not limited to experience, qualifications and geographic location. Also, most employees are eligible for additional incentive pay.

Your Benefits Start Day 1

Your wellbeing is important to Pacific Life, and we're committed to providing you with flexible benefits that you can tailor to meet your needs. Whether you are focusing on your physical, financial, emotional, or social wellbeing, we've got you covered.

• Prioritization of your health and well-being including Medical, Dental, Vision, and Wellbeing Reimbursement Account that can be used on yourself or your eligible dependents

• Generous paid time off options including: Paid Time Off, Holiday Schedules, and Financial Planning Time Off

• Paid Parental Leave as well as an Adoption Assistance Program

• Competitive 401k savings plan with company match and an additional contribution regardless of participation

EEO Statement:

Pacific Life Insurance Company is an Equal Opportunity /Affirmative Action Employer, M/F/D/V. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our career center as a result of your disability. To request an accommodation, contact a Human Resources Representative at Pacific Life Insurance Company.