Job Summary
The Lead Category Specialist - Supply Chain is a senior-level individual contributor responsible for owning the analytical strategy and performance optimization of assigned product categories. This role serves as a thought leader within the supply chain organization, driving complex analysis, leading cross-functional initiatives, and influencing strategic decisions. The Lead Category Specialist partners closely with planning, logistics, operations, and finance to ensure category strategies are data-driven, scalable, and aligned with enterprise goals.

Essential Functions

Own end-to-end category performance analysis, identifying opportunities for cost reduction, service improvement, and operational efficiency.

Serve as the primary analytical resource for high-impact projects, including inventory optimization, demand variability analysis, and supply chain risk mitigation.

Lead cross-functional working groups and initiatives, ensuring alignment and execution of category strategies.

Mentor and coach junior and seniorteam members , fostering analytical excellence and knowledge sharing.

Act as a strategic advisor to senior leadership, presenting insights and recommendations that shape category direction and investment.

High impact communicator and story teller. Ability to utilize data and insights to form a story that drives value. Ability to communication with senior leaders across the business.

Leads strategic sourcing and RFx events for large and complex projects. Subject matter expert in strategic sourcing for assigned categories.

Develops spend/performance and external market analyses to monitor category performance and identify performance improvement opportunities

Developing spend and savings/performance improvement forecasts to monitor progress and ensure goals are achieved

Collaborating with stakeholder groups to develop consensus on the appropriate category plans and priorities

Initiates and leads performance and process improvement initiatives defined by the category plan including strategic sourcing and other initiatives in support of supply chain excellence.

Establishing, leading/facilitating and supporting cross functional strategic sourcing/performance improvement teams as needed/prescribed by category plans to achieve savings and performance targets (e.g. reduce cost, improve quality and result in a lower total cost of ownership, meeting supplier diversity goals)

Partners with contracting specialists to develop and execute negotiation plans for large and complex deals. Manages supplier relationships including developing material and conducting Quarterly Business Reviews with critical suppliers and NiSource Executive Sponsors.

Develops successful partnerships with key stakeholders / business partners to achieve desired results.

Developing and managing cross-functional category management and strategic sourcing teams as needed

Encompasses duties of Category Specialist & Sr Category Specialist

Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications For Position

Bachelor's Degree Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Law, or related field (JD or Master's preferred) or 4+ years of experience

4-6 years 5+ years of experience in contract management or procurement, preferably within a supply chain environment.

Experience leading cross-functional teams

Ability to influence and drive results independently.

Demonstrates deep knowledge and experience within assigned spend management responsibilities

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Proven track record to deliver results and achieve goals

Demonstrated ability to develop effective working relationships with others

Ability to build support and consensus

Proven financial acumen and analytical abilities

Demonstrated experience in category management and strategic sourcing practices

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Master's Degree MBA

1-3 years Three years of leadership experience

Experience managing large supplier agreements

Experience working in a centralized supply chain organization

Supply Chain experience in the utility industry

Preferred Additional Qualifications for Position

Master's Degree MBA

Physical Demands

Standing - Frequently

Walking - Frequently

Sitting - Frequently

Lifting - Rarely

Carrying - Rarely

Pushing - Rarely

Pulling - Rarely

Climbing - Rarely

Balancing - Rarely

Stooping - Rarely

Kneeling - Rarely

Crouching - Rarely

Crawling - Rarely

Reaching - Rarely

Handling - Rarely

Grasping - Rarely

Feeling - Rarely

Talking - Frequently

Hearing - Frequently

Repetitive Motions - Rarely

Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination - Rarely

The preceding description is not designed to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities required of the position.

As a public utility, NiSource provides essential services to customers 24/7. Emergency needs can arise at various times throughout the year, including during storm season. Employees may be required to support emergency response efforts, which could include working outside normal hours or assisting with tasks outside of typical responsibilities.

Work Authorization

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must not require employer sponsorship now or in the future.

Workplace Connection
We value a workplace where everyone feels respected, included, and able to do their best work. We encourage open dialogue, value different perspectives, and work collaboratively with employees, customers, and partners.

We recognize and respect the unique experiences people bring, including different backgrounds, cultures, and viewpoints. We treat others with professionalism and care, and we each play a part in creating a positive work environment.

Veteran Hiring & Inclusion

NiSource is proud to support veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses. We value the leadership, teamwork, and mission-focused experience the military community brings, and we are committed to providing an inclusive workplace with opportunities for professional growth and development.

Salary Range*:
$96,600.00 - $144,900.00

*The salary offered to a candidate is based on several factors including but not limited to the candidate's skills, job-related knowledge, and relevant experience, as well as internal pay equity.

Posting Start Date:
2026-10-01

Posting End Date (if applicable):
2026-10-07Please note that the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.