This is an incredible opportunity to join a company that has been at the forefront of AI and high-performance data storage innovation for over two decades. DataDirect Networks (DDN) is a global leader in AI and multi-cloud data management at scale, helping customers run some of the world's most demanding AI and data-intensive environments. We are looking for a visionary Strategic Sourcing Manager to build our procurement function from the ground up.

You will help design the workflows, select the tools, and help establish the "source-to-pay" playbook within the domain of our new ERP system Workday.

The Strategic Sourcing

Manager is responsible for identifying, developing, and managing long-term partnerships with key suppliers. You won't just be "buying stuff"; you will be analyzing market trends, evaluating Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), and executing sourcing strategies that drive value, mitigate risk, and support the company 's bottom line. A significantportion of your initial focus will be on our SaaS and Technology stack , ensuring we optimize our digital spend, eliminate redundant subscriptions, and manage renewals proactively.

Category Strategy: Develop and execute multi-year sourcing strategies for assigned categories to achieve cost savings and improve service levels.

Negotiation:



Act as the lead negotiator for complex contracts, focusing on pricing, SLAs, legal terms, and performance incentives.

Relationship

Management (SRM): Conduct regular business reviews with "Tier 1" suppliers to ensure compliance and foster innovation.

Risk Mitigation: Monitor integral market trends and geopolitical shifts to identify supply chain vulnerabilities and develop contingency plans.

Data Analysis: Utilize spend analytics tools to identify "maverick spend" and consolidation opportunities. three different project management apps) and consolidate spend into enterprise agreements.

Experience: 10+ years in procurement or strategic sourcing, with a proven track record of managing a high-spend portfolio. The "Human" Side: Exceptional communication skills—you need to be able to tell a story with data to convince stakeholders to change vendors.

SaaS Savvy: Deep understanding of software licensing models (per seat, consumption-based, tiered) and the ability to navigate complex "Terms of Service" in SaaS contracts.

Experience using tools (like Zylo, Blissfully, or simple spend exports) to find hidden software spend across the company.

📌 Global Strategic Sourcing Manager (Madrid)
🏢 DDN
📍 Madrid