Arconic

Category Manager - Manufacturing Procurement

Arconic$90K — $120K *
Alcoa, TN 37701In-Person
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in relevant fields such as Business, Supply Chain, Logistics, or Engineering.
  • At least 5 years of purchasing management experience.
  • Authorized to work in the U.S., with eligibility verification required.
  • Knowledge of controlled technology as per export regulations may be required.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement category management and strategic sourcing initiatives for Outside Processing.
  • Drive continuous improvement and process optimization efforts within transportation strategies.
  • Create standardized processes for assessing the potential insourcing of production services.
  • Monitor market trends to evaluate their impact on business and communicate insights to stakeholders.
  • Establish performance metrics and reporting tools for compliance and transparency in operations.
  • Resolve production scheduling issues in collaboration with stakeholders.
  • Foster cross-functional communication to ensure alignment on strategic initiatives.

Benefits

  • Access to a modern corporate campus in a scenic location with good connectivity.
  • On-site cafeteria providing diverse meal options.
  • Opportunity to work with a talented team focused on innovation and excellence.
Full Job Description
Job Description

Arconic has an exciting opportunity to join our team as Category Manager - Outside Processing / Contract Manufacturing within our Corporate Transportation Procurement organization. This position will report to the Sr. Director of Indirect Procurement and can be situated either at our Headquarters in Pittsburgh, PA, or at one of our Production Plant locations (Davenport, IA - Alcoa, TN - Lancaster, PA). This individual will be innovative, analytical, process driven, and team oriented with an entrepreneurial approach to problems.

Job Summary:

This role will be responsible for development of category strategies, strategic sourcing initiatives, project management, and relationship management over Arconic Outside Processors / Contract Manufacturing 3rd party suppliers. We will look to this individual to develop fresh, creative, and effective ideas that drive transparency, process optimization, compliance, and cost savings with the overarching target of broadening and strengthening our service level to our stakeholders and customers.

We are looking for an individual who is motivated to make a difference in an area that is ripe with opportunity. This role requires knowledge of overall supply chain, sound financial acumen, and knowledge of logistics as well as their inter-connectivity to upstream supply chains and downstream customers. Excellent communication and partnership skills are essential as the role interfaces with a broad stakeholder base including operational teams, supply chain leaders, global process owners, Quality, customers, suppliers, etc.

Responsibilities

In this role, you will:

Category Strategy & Execution: Lead the development and implementation of strategic sourcing and category management initiatives for Outside Processing and Warehousing services.

Process Optimization & Standardization: Drive continuous improvement efforts that support the Transportation Game Plan and Category Strategy, including scrap management, supplier development, and cost reduction initiatives.

Insourcing Evaluation: Establish and maintain standardized processes to assess and build business cases for the potential insourcing of outside production services.

Market Intelligence & Communication: Monitor market trends and insights, evaluate their impact on the business, and proactively communicate relevant developments to internal stakeholders.

Performance Management & Compliance: Support the creation and deployment of standardized reporting tools, KPIs, and control mechanisms to ensure process compliance and performance transparency.

Stakeholder Support & Escalation Management: Serve as a key escalation point to ensure timely, accurate, and cost-effective service delivery to internal stakeholders and external customers.

Operational Issue Resolution: Collaborate with stakeholders and partners to address and resolve production scheduling and operational challenges related to OSP.

Cross-Functional Collaboration: Foster effective communication and collaboration with internal departments and external partners to ensure alignment and execution of strategic initiatives.

Primary Responsibilities:

Category Management:
  • Responsibility over Outside Processing for the company.
    • Responsible for the development, review, and execution of Category & Sourcing Strategies.
    • Manage Relationships with Key suppliers.
    • Provide Headwind/Tailwind forecasts based on market data/conditions.
    • Manage urgencies as they arise.
    • Work closely with Stakeholders to provide solutions or support to any issues.

Contract Management
  • Collaborate with end stakeholders to define clear and comprehensive Statements of Work (SOWs) for inclusion in new and existing contracts.
  • Partner with Legal and Finance teams to ensure all terms, conditions, and financial approvals comply with Arconic policy.
  • Lead supplier negotiations to secure optimal cost positions.

Supplier Management
  • Provide support to stakeholders in resolving quality issues, negotiating claims, and ensuring production continuity to meet customer requirements.
  • Manage supplier portfolios and coordinate quote requests for processing needs.
  • Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for OSP and warehouse suppliers.
  • Oversee supplier pricing across all business units, including price updates.

Cost Savings Initiatives
  • Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities that deliver measurable value to the organization.
  • Develop business cases for sourcing initiatives and cost reduction projects, securing stakeholder alignment and support.

Supplier Development
  • Source and onboard new suppliers to strengthen cost competitiveness across Arconic's customer markets.
  • Collaborate with Quality teams to qualify new suppliers and ensure successful integration into all required systems


Qualifications

You have: (required)
  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Management, Supply Chain, Logistics, Information Technology, Politics/Political Science, Policy, Finance, Accounting, Data Science/Analytics, Marketing/Communications, Economics, Mathematics, or Engineering from an accredited Institution
  • 5 years of experience in purchasing management
  • 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). Authorizations from the relevant government agency may be required to meet export control compliance requirements.

Exceptional Candidates also have: (preferred)
  • MBA in Business Administration/Economics or similar preferred
  • Decision-making
  • Communication and negotiation skills
  • Project Management
  • Innovative, Strategic thinker
  • Customer-oriented with business acumen
  • Demonstrated flexibility in her/his ability to flex between multiple categories/suppliers
  • Professional certifications Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) is preferred


#LI-RM1

About the Team

Arconic's Corporate Center is located on Pittsburgh's North shore of the Allegheny River with spectacular views of the Pittsburgh skyline and is surrounded by scenic walkways and trails. The Corporate Center is easily accessible from all major interstates and is just blocks away from PNC Park, Market Square and Pittsburgh's most popular restaurants. The building has a cafeteria that serves a variety of breakfast and lunch options daily.

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
Net Income
-$91 million
Founded
2016
5 Year Trend
+2.4%
Revenue
$5.6 billion
NASDAQ

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