Lead Specialist, Strategic Sourcing

Lead Specialist, Strategic Sourcing Apply now » Date: Mar 26, 2026 Location: Houston, TX, US, 77002 Company: CenterPoint Energy CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 150 years.    Our Vision: Our vision is to become the most admired utility in the United States through the execution of our long-term growth strategy. We have an unwavering commitment to safely and reliably deliver electricity and natural gas to millions of people.    Our Commitment: CenterPoint Energy is committed to creating an inclusive work environment where business results are achieved through the skills, abilities and talents of our diverse workforce. At CenterPoint Energy, individuals are respected for their contributions toward our company objectives. We strive for an inclusive work environment across all levels that is reflective of the available workforce in the communities we serve.    Job Summary The Lead Strategic Sourcing Specialist – IT is responsible for leading the development and execution of complex, enterprise-wide category strategies across IT spend categories, including software, hardware, and technology services. This role drives strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, contract negotiations, and risk mitigation initiatives to deliver sustainable cost savings and value across the organization. This position serves as a subject matter expert in IT sourcing, partnering closely with business stakeholders and senior leadership to align sourcing strategies with organizational goals. The Lead Specialist also mentors junior team members and contributes to the continuous improvement of sourcing practices. Essential Functions Lead the development, implementation, and execution of comprehensive IT category strategies aligned with business objectives, incorporating market intelligence, demand planning, sustainability, supplier diversity, and total cost of ownership Execute end-to-end strategic sourcing events, including RFx processes, supplier evaluation, negotiations, and contract execution Develop and maintain deep expertise in IT spend categories, including software, hardware, cloud, and related services, identifying opportunities for cost optimization and value creation Conduct spend analytics, market research, and cost modeling to support data-driven sourcing strategies and stakeholder decision-making Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders, proactively identifying business needs and aligning sourcing solutions Lead complex supplier negotiations, including pricing, terms and conditions, and service level agreements (SLAs), ensuring alignment with business requirements Identify, assess, and mitigate supply chain and category risks; lead cross-functional efforts to implement risk mitigation strategies Drive supplier performance management and relationship management activities to ensure quality, reliability, and continuous improvement Monitor industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices, incorporating insights into sourcing strategies and execution plans Leadership & Collaboration Serve as a subject matter expert in IT strategic sourcing across the organization Mentor and support the development of junior sourcing specialists Lead or facilitate knowledge-sharing sessions and training initiatives Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including IT, Finance, Legal, and Operations, to drive sourcing initiatives Ensure continuity and reliability of supply, proactively addressing performance issues and identifying improvement opportunities Partner with stakeholders to define sourcing requirements, scope of work, and procurement strategies for both strategic initiatives and operational needs Promote change management and end-user adoption of sourcing strategies, including training and communication as needed Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and contracting standards Education Description Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain, Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field Equivalent relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree Experience 5+ years of experience in IT strategic sourcing or category management 7+ years Strategic Sourcing. Proven experience leading complex sourcing initiatives and negotiating with IT vendors (software, hardware, services) Demonstrated success in delivering cost savings and value through strategic sourcing initiatives Strong understanding of category management principles and market dynamics within IT categories Experience developing and executing sourcing strategies at an enterprise level Experience delivering end to end Telecomm technology solutions Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP) and advanced proficiency in Excel/data analysis tools Strong analytical and financial modeling skills Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills Experience in supplier relationship management and performance management Ability to influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization Physical Requirements Working Conditions   We want you to know Being a part of the CenterPoint Energy team is more than a career alone. It's an opportunity to make a positive impact. You will be an integral part of enabling everyday life and the pursuit of possibilities for the customers we serve and the communities we share. The vital services we provide are at the core of making our world work, and by sharing your energy with us, we'll create a better tomorrow together.    What we bring to you Competitive pay Paid training Benefits eligibility begins on your first day Transit subsidies Flexible work schedule, paid holidays and paid time off Access to discounts at fitness clubs and an on-site wellness center at our headquarters in Houston Professional growth and development programs including tuition reimbursement 401(k) Savings Plan featuring a company match dollar-for-dollar up to 6% and a company contribution of 3% regardless of your contribution   Job Type: Full Time  Posting Start Date: 03/26/2026​ Posting End Date: 03/30/2026