Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field
5-10+ years of experience in procurement, sourcing, category management, or supply chain management
Demonstrated experience in category management and supplier negotiations
Experience in a multi-site manufacturing environment preferred
Strong strategic thinking and analytical capabilities
Responsibilities
Develop and implement category strategies aligned with business and operational objectives
Analyze spend, demand, and market conditions to identify cost savings and value opportunities
Lead strategic sourcing activities, including RFQs, negotiations, and supplier selection
Drive contract utilization and reduce maverick spend across sites
Establish and manage long-term supplier relationships
Deliver measurable cost savings, cost avoidance, and working capital improvements
Partner with cross-functional teams to support cost reduction and operations
Benefits
Support for procurement transformation and system implementation
Opportunity to manage supplier performance using KPIs and scorecards
Involvement in shaping category management across North America
Potential for significant impact on cost and operational efficiency
Collaboration with cross-functional teams enhances professional development
Full Job Description
Description
Position Summary
The Procurement Category Manager is responsible for developing and executing category strategies across North America to drive cost competitiveness, supply continuity, and operational efficiency. This role supports the transition from site-based purchasing to a centralized, strategic category management model, with ownership of supplier strategy, sourcing, and category performance.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and implement category develop and implement category strategies aligned with business and operational objectives
Analyze spend, demand, and market conditions to identify cost savings and value opportunities
Lead strategic sourcing activities, including RFQs, negotiations, and supplier selection
Develop, negotiate, and execute regional and multi-site contracts
Ensure disciplined execution and compliance with purchase orders against established agreements
Drive contract utilization and reduce maverick spend across sites
Establish and manage long-term supplier relationships
Segment suppliers (strategic vs. transactional) and manage accordingly
Lead supplier performance management using KPIs, scorecards, and business reviews
Deliver measurable cost savings, cost avoidance, and working capital improvements
Track and report category performance (cost, service, quality, risk)
Identify and mitigate supply risks and develop business continuity plans
Ensure compliance with procurement policies, regulatory, and ESG requirements
Partner with cross-functional teams to support cost reduction and operations
Align supplier capacity with demand forecasts
Standardize materials, specifications, and supply base across North America
Drive adoption of centralized procurement processes across sites
Support procurement transformation and system implementation
Requirements
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field
5-10+ years of experience in procurement, sourcing, category management, or supply chain management
Demonstrated experience in category management and supplier negotiations
Experience in a multi-site manufacturing environment preferred
Skills and Competencies
Strong strategic thinking and analytical capabilities
Effective negotiation and supplier management skills
Ability to influence and collaborate across a matrixed organization
Proficiency in data analysis, cost modeling, and financial evaluation
Strong communication and stakeholder management skills