Sr. Category Manager

JOB SUMMARY

Leads category strategies for multiple purchase areas and/or of significant total spend across the enterprise. Leads strategic sourcing activities for assigned commodities by data gathering, identifying suppliers, quote preparation, supplier qualification, and gap analysis to make robust decisions regarding supplier selection and sourcing needs. Manages supplier relationships and performance and identifies cost reduction opportunities.

KEY OBJECTIVES

• Conducts supplier contract negotiations, supplier selection, and contract life cycle management. Communicates expectations and results with suppliers.
• Develops and executes sourcing and supplier management strategies to improve supply, cost, risk management, product development, and innovation.
• Defines and communicates the category vision and expectations for suppliers and internal team members outlining performance and gaps to goals, and improvements to ensure business objectives are met.
• Collaborates to resolve issues, execute projects, and grow the organization’s category expertise.
• Coaches and mentors Category Analysts to develop their category-specific expertise.
• Develops and maintains effective business relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Manages and reports on category annual operating planning cycle activities.
• Assures overall continuity of supply and active risk mitigation. Works with plants to resolve quality, delivery, capacity and other issues as required.
• Leads continuous cost reduction / value improvement activities by developing and executing projects, competitively quoting, conducting negotiations, and developing/executing cost models.
• Performs other duties as assigned

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain Management or related field, or equivalent education and experience
• 7+ years of experience in purchasing or related field
• Expert in category strategy, strategic sourcing, supplier management, spend analysis, and contract negotiation skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for report writing, presentations and interactions with diverse groups of people inside and outside of the Company
• Proficient with and SAP
• Ability to work in a team environment and to build and manage business relationships
• Project management experience
• Ability to lead sophisticated partnership arrangements
• Ability to influence stakeholders
• Fluent in English and primary language used in area of responsibility and/or location

LOCATION

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

Competitive compensation and benefits package commensurate with experience.