Position Summary We are seeking a highly capable and hands-on Category Manager - Electrical & Controls to lead both strategic sourcing and day-to-day procurement activities for electrical components, control systems, and related technologies. This role is ideal for a procurement professional who thrives in a fast-paced, project-driven manufacturing environment and can balance long-term category strategy with tactical execution. The ideal candidate will bring deep commodity knowledge, supplier management expertise, and a strong sense of urgency to support engineering, production, and project teams.
Essential Responsibilities- Strategic Sourcing & Category Management
- Develop and execute commodity strategies to champion and secure total cost of ownership (TCO) reduction for electrical and controls aligned with business goals.
- Lead sourcing initiatives, including RFQ/RFP processes, supplier selection, and contract negotiations.
- Identify and qualify new suppliers to support innovation, cost reduction, and risk mitigation.
- Conduct total cost of ownership (TCO) and should-cost analyses to inform sourcing decisions for electrical and controls spend category
- Operational Buying & Execution
- Monitor strategy implementation and drive annual productivity improvements in electrical and controls categories.
- Manage day-to-day purchasing of electrical components and control systems to meet project and production needs.
- Maintain accurate ERP records, assist on major purchase orders, and ensure timely delivery of goods and services.
- Resolve supplier issues including shortages, late deliveries, and non-conformances.
- Support invoice resolution and collaborate with Finance and Accounting for accurate coding and budget alignment.
- Supplier Management
- Build and manage supplier relationships, including performance reviews, scorecards, and corrective action plans.
- Monitor supplier performance (OTD, quality, responsiveness) and lead resolution of issues.
- Conduct supplier risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with Engineering, Quality, Production, and Project Management to align sourcing strategies with technical and operational requirements.
- Support new product introductions (NPIs) by ensuring timely sourcing of components and services.
- Participate in project meetings to align procurement activities with timelines and deliverables.
- Process Improvement & Compliance
- Drive continuous improvement in procurement processes, tools, and systems to enhance efficiency and scalability.
- Ensure compliance with procurement policies, contract terms, and audit requirements.
- Assist in onboarding new suppliers and maintaining supplier master data.
Minimum Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, or related field (MBA or certifications such as CPSM/CIPS preferred).
- 5 plus years of procurement experience, with a focus on electrical, controls, or technical commodities in a manufacturing or project-based environment.
- Demonstrated success in both strategic sourcing and tactical buying.
- Strong understanding of electrical components, control systems, and associated supply markets.
- Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., Epicor, SAP, Oracle, NetSuite).
- Excellent communication, analytical, negotiation, and project management skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.
- Advanced sourcing toolkit and supply base management familiarity (should-cost, design to value, etc.)
Preferred Attributes- Familiarity with engineering drawings and technical specifications.
- Experience with global sourcing and supplier qualification processes.
- Knowledge of compliance standards and sustainable procurement practices.
- Experience leading cross-functional teams and driving change initiatives.
TAIT Benefits:
Competitive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contributions (HDHP plans)
Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical & Dependent Care)
Employer-paid life insurance with optional supplemental coverage
Employer-paid Short-term with optional long-term disability insurance
401(k) retirement plan with company match
Paid parental leave
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Wellness stipends
Voluntary benefits (e.g., accident, critical illness)
Paid vacation and 12 holidays
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