The Category Specialist role is an intermediate level position within the supply chain category management and new product development functions. This role will support the organization by analyzing, organizing, and improving sourcing processes, with the goal of streamlining operations. Qualified candidates will evaluate existing procurement systems, supplier agreements, logistical arrangements, and workflow systems in search of opportunities for improvement and cost savings. This role is responsible for all aspects of cost management and supplier selection for an assigned set of categories and is expected to participate in and/or lead supplier price negotiations. The Category Specialist is the face of our organization to our supply base and will develop relationships with key suppliers to ensure competitive pricing and continuity of supply.

YOUR IMPACT

These duties are not meant to be all-inclusive and other duties may be assigned.

• Develop and execute strategies for sourcing, supplier management, negotiation, productivity, and supplier relationships.

• Partner with key business stakeholders to ensure sourced material meets the needs of the business.

• Collaborate effectively across different organizational levels, sites, functions, businesses, and regions to achieve sourcing goals and objectives.

• Apply knowledge of data analytics tools; data analytics in a specific commodity/category.

• Apply critical thinking skills to connect the category data to the business.

• Demonstrate knowledge of suppliers and supply markets and how they impact the business.

• Review engineering technical drawings with an understanding of taxonomy and technical grammar.

• Assist and lead long-term agreement and other commercial negotiations.

• Identify and communicate supply chain risk and develop mitigation strategies.

• Understand and communicate category/commodity prices including total cost of ownership models.

• Support strategic sourcing initiatives, with development and understanding of the sourcing process.

• Regularly use influencing skills; utilizes project management to lead and coordinate programs from concept through launch and may be participant on cross-functional councils.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree and three (3) or more years of experience in Supply Chain Management or a related field.

• OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Ability to travel 10-20%.

WORKING CONDITIONS

The following represents general working conditions for this office-based role. Specific conditions may vary depending on business needs and individual circumstances.

• This role is primarily performed in a professional office environment with standard lighting, ventilation, and temperature-controlled settings.

• Duties are largely sedentary, requiring extended periods of sitting and using a computer and telephone.

• Visual acuity to operate a computer and read documents is required, along with auditory ability to participate in virtual and in-person meetings.

• Occasional movement within the office environment is necessary, including walking short distances, standing, or reaching for files.

• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.

Pay Range:

The above pay range reflects the minimum and maximum target pay for the position across all U.S. locations. Within this range, individual pay is determined by various factors, including the scope and responsibilities of the role, the candidate's experience, education and skills, as well as the equity of pay among team members in similar positions. Beyond offering a competitive total rewards package, we prioritize a people-first culture and offer various opportunities to support team member growth and success.