Category Manager

Overview

The Strategic Sourcing Category Manager is responsible for the acquisition of goods and services, both domestically and internationally, across many potential areas including HR, Legal, Finance, Sales, Events, Travel, Marketing, Facilities, and Construction. With a total spend under management exceeding USD 500M and rapidly growing, this requires who can support the evolution of the existing Strategic Sourcing organization to meet the demands and priorities of our growing business. The position will be responsible for developing and refining strategies related to procurement policies, contract management, category management, vendor relationship management, procurement systems, and spend analytics reporting. This position will report to the Director of Strategic Sourcing and involves building strong relationships with executive management, department lead and stakeholders, and external vendors.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support the sourcing-related activities through the seven-step sourcing life cycle for critical spending areas, including, Corporate Services such as Operations, Legal, Real Estate and Construction, HR, and Finance
• Lead and support contract negotiations with key suppliers and critical vendor supplier management strategies.
• Build cross-functional business partnerships, coaching internal partners on the value creation of Strategic Sourcing.
• Develop and lead category strategies for critical spending areas, including Corporate Services, Operations, Real Estate and Construction, HR, and Finance.
• Build financial models for evaluating proposal scenarios.
• Conduct executive business reviews detailing enterprise vendor spending to drive awareness and action.
• Communicate regularly with Business and executive leadership on project status, contract renewal pipeline, category performance, and other initiatives.
• Drive awareness and communication for the Strategic Sourcing brand internally and externally to promote the adoption of procurement policies and practices.
• Support in the continuous improvement of category management, contract management, sourcing processes, supplier relationship management, continuous education, policy and compliance practices, spend analytics and reporting.
• Partner with Finance to enhance vendor policy and practices.

• Bachelor's Degree, preference in Business Administration, supply chain, accounting, engineering, or related areas. MBA equivalent background preferred.
• Solid supply chain management, procurement, or project management background with 5-12+ years of related experience.
• Ability to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining a standard of timeliness and excellence.
• Effective communication with vendors and internal partners to enhance the credibility of the sourcing function and improve service to internal business partners.
• Comprehensive understanding of various category areas, including finance, real estate, HR, and operations.
• Excellent problem-solving ability and a drive for continuous improvement through curiosity and learning.
• Ability to identify and implement innovative procurement practices to adapt to a fast-paced environment while demonstrating business acumen and strong judgment.
• Demonstrated experience managing critical supplier relationships and building strategic plans for scalable vendor management.
• Strong executive presence, leadership ability, and self-awareness.
• Strategic thinking to align procurement strategies with business goals and adapt to changing priorities while continuing to drive optimal value in purchasing goods and services.
• Ability to assess and mitigate risks associated with procurement activities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills,
• Partnership-first mindset for supplier management with a focus on accountability.
• Ability to maintain proper documentation of policies, practices, and procedures.