Arconic

Category Manager - Direct Materials

Arconic • $100K — $120K *
Pittsburgh, PA 15237In-Person
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, Finance, or related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, or commodity management.
  • Experience in negotiating complex commercial agreements and managing supplier relationships.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Proven ability to lead cross-functional projects and influence stakeholders.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and procurement systems.
  • Legal authorization to work in the U.S., with verification required at hire.

Responsibilities

  • Own global category strategy and supplier management for alloying materials.
  • Develop and execute category strategies aligning with business objectives.
  • Deliver procurement value through cost reduction and risk mitigation initiatives.
  • Monitor global commodity markets and industry trends for risks and opportunities.
  • Lead strategic sourcing initiatives, including supplier evaluations and negotiations.
  • Establish relationships with suppliers to enhance cost, quality, and sustainability.
  • Collaborate with teams to align sourcing strategies with operational needs.

Benefits

  • Engagement in a dynamic and growing sector with opportunities for career development.
  • Collaboration with cross-functional teams across various business units.
  • Potential for travel to strengthen supplier relationships and conduct negotiations.
  • Access to training and development programs to enhance procurement expertise.
Full Job Description
Job Description

Reporting to the Director, Metal Procurement, the Category Manager, Direct Materials is responsible for developing and executing global category strategies for alloying materials critical to Arconic's manufacturing operations. This role leads the commercial management of a multi-million-dollar spend portfolio, driving competitive advantage through strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, market intelligence, risk mitigation, and total cost optimization.

The successful candidate will partner closely with Operations, Supply Chain, Finance, and Business Unit leadership to ensure continuity of supply, deliver sustainable cost improvements, and support the company's growth and profitability objectives. This position requires a strategic mindset, strong commercial acumen, and the ability to navigate complex global supply markets while building collaborative relationships with internal stakeholders and key suppliers.

Responsibilities

In This Role, You Will:
  • Own the global category strategy, sourcing, and supplier management activities for alloying materials, including magnesium, lithium, silicon, zinc, manganese, and other strategic alloy additions.
  • Develop and execute comprehensive category strategies that align with business objectives and incorporate market intelligence, supplier segmentation, risk management, sustainability initiatives, and total cost optimization.
  • Deliver annual procurement value through cost reduction programs, productivity initiatives, risk mitigation activities, supply assurance programs, and working capital improvements.
  • Monitor global commodity markets, supplier performance, geopolitical developments, and industry trends to proactively identify risks and opportunities that impact business performance.
  • Lead strategic sourcing initiatives, including market assessments, supplier evaluations, RFQ events, negotiations, and contract awards.
  • Establish and maintain strong relationships with strategic suppliers while driving continuous improvement in cost, quality, delivery, innovation, and sustainability performance.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing, supply chain, quality, finance, and commercial teams to ensure sourcing strategies are aligned with business requirements and operational needs.
  • Champion supplier relationship management activities, including executive business reviews, performance scorecards, corrective action plans, and long-term strategic partnerships.
  • Utilize spend analytics, market intelligence, and procurement systems to identify sourcing opportunities and support data-driven decision-making.
  • Influence key stakeholders and senior leadership by preparing and presenting category strategies, market updates, supplier recommendations, and sourcing outcomes.
  • Ensure compliance with company procurement policies, governance requirements, and ethical sourcing standards.
  • Travel up to 25% as required to support supplier engagement, business reviews, negotiations, and operational requirements.


Qualifications

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, Finance, or a related field.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, supply chain, commodity management, or related commercial roles.
  • Experience negotiating complex commercial agreements and managing strategic supplier relationships.
  • Strong analytical, financial, and problem-solving capabilities.
  • Experience leading cross-functional projects and influencing stakeholders in a matrix organization.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and procurement-related systems.
  • Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
  • This position requires access to controlled technology, as defined in the Export Administration Regulations (15 C.F.R. 7730, et seq.) and/or the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Qualified candidate must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the relevant government agency. Business demands may require employer to proceed with candidates who are immediately eligible to access controlled technology.


Additional Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience sourcing metals, alloying materials, raw materials, or other commodity-based products.
  • Knowledge of global commodity markets and supply chain risk management principles.
  • Experience developing and executing global category strategies.
  • Strong understanding of contract management, supplier performance management, and total cost of ownership methodologies.
  • Demonstrated success delivering measurable cost savings and business value through strategic procurement initiatives.
  • MBA, CPSM, CPM, CIPS, or equivalent professional certification preferred.


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About Arconic

Arconic produces aluminum sheets, plates, extrusions, and architectural products for the ground transportation, aerospace, building and construction, industrial, and packaging industries. Rolled Products, Extrusions, and Building and Construction Systems (BCS) are the company's operating segments. The Rolled Products segment generates the majority of its revenue, which is used in the production of finished goods ranging from automotive body panels and airframes to industrial plate and brazing sheets.

Arconic Careers

Joining Arconic means becoming part of a global team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation and leadership in the industry. As a company renowned for its commitment to quality and precision in advanced manufacturing, Arconic offers unparalleled job opportunities for professionals eager to advance their careers in a dynamic environment.

Work You’ll Do

At Arconic, your work will directly contribute to projects that redefine what's possible in the world of manufacturing. Our team at Arconic is at the forefront of industry innovation, utilizing cutting-edge technologies to develop lightweight, high-performance metals that are critical to the success of industries ranging from aerospace to automotive.

Empower Your Growth

Arconic is not just a company; it's a place where you can shape your future. Join us and you will find opportunities for growth through professional development, leadership training, and access to global experiences. Our commitment to career advancement is evident in our robust training programs and our dedication to promoting from within.

Be Part of a Great Team

Our culture at Arconic is built on collaboration, diversity, and the shared goal of excellence. We believe in empowering our employees with the skills and support they need to thrive. You will work alongside a team of dedicated professionals who are not only experts in their fields but are also eager to mentor and collaborate.

Innovate with Us

Innovation is at the heart of everything we do at Arconic. From developing new manufacturing processes to creating sustainable solutions, our team is constantly exploring new ways to lead the industry forward. Your role will involve hands-on problem solving and the opportunity to make significant contributions to our company’s success.

Explore Job Opportunities and Internships

Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking for your next challenge or a student seeking a transformative internship, Arconic offers a range of positions to match your skills and ambitions. Explore our open positions in engineering, project management, and more to find the perfect fit for your career aspirations.

Interview and Resume Tips

Succeeding in securing a position at Arconic involves highlighting your expertise and alignment with our company values. Our hiring process is designed to understand your strengths and how they can contribute to our ongoing success. Visit our Careers page for tips on acing your interview and crafting a resume that stands out.

Networking and Professional Development

At Arconic, we encourage our employees to engage in continuous learning and networking. By joining our team, you gain access to industry-leading professionals and opportunities that can expand your horizons and deepen your professional network.

Benefits and Culture

Choosing a career at Arconic means enjoying a range of benefits designed to support your lifestyle and well-being. From health and wellness programs to flexible working arrangements, we prioritize the needs of our team members. Our inclusive culture fosters an environment where every employee can feel valued, respected, and heard.

Join Our Team

Ready to advance your career at Arconic? Search for job opportunities that match your skills and interests. We are looking for passionate, curious, and innovative team players who are ready to make an impact.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest at Arconic by following our Careers Blog. Gain insights from our team, learn about our industry, and discover how you can contribute to our collective success.

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Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities waiting for you at Arconic. Join Arconic to be part of a legacy of innovation and leadership. Explore how far your talents can take you.
Learn more about Arconic
Size
13,900 employees
Market Cap
$2.1 billion
Industry
Manufacturing & Automotive
Net Income
-$91 million
Founded
2016
5 Year Trend
+2.4%
Revenue
$5.6 billion
NASDAQ
ARNC
* Ladders Estimates

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