Chicago-Office
Contract Type: Permanent
Remote/Hybrid/Onsite: Hybrid
Req Id: 39642
Role SummaryThe Senior Category Manager - Indirect oversees ~$100M+ in indirect spend across North America and directly manages ~$50M in assigned categories such as spare parts, equipment/maintenance, CAPEX, professional services, and secondary packaging. The role partners with business leaders to analyze spend, support operational needs, and identify value-creation opportunities. Responsibilities include developing category expertise, executing sourcing strategies, leading negotiations, managing contracts, and overseeing supplier performance.
Key ResponsibilitiesCategory Management- Deliver category targets and ensure alignment with procurement goals.
- Consolidate market, supplier, and internal data to build and execute category strategies.
- Develop long-term business-aligned category plans and communicate to senior leadership.
- Ensure resources, tools, and processes are in place for effective execution.
- Own key supplier relationships and governance; ensure robust contracts.
- Develop a Category Playbook to guide best practices.
- Ensure adherence to procurement policies and resolve internal issues promptly.
- Integrate procurement into core business processes and maintain governance standards.
- Assess and manage category risks and support mitigation plans.
- Manage contracts through their full lifecycle, including claims.
People Management- Lead, coach, and develop team members; ensure succession and knowledge retention.
- Manage team KPIs, productivity, and continuous improvement performance.
Negotiation- Build strong supplier relationships and secure beneficial contractual agreements.
- Lead negotiation planning, process, and outcomes.
Relationship Management- Understand stakeholder needs and build long-term partnerships.
- Align supplier governance with category strategy.
- Lead cross-functional teams to improve service delivery and ensure policy compliance.
Financial Planning & Reporting- Track and report savings, TCO improvements, and working-capital impacts.
- Provide periodic reporting, forecasting, and KPI trend analysis.
Procurement Projects- Lead key strategic procurement projects and cross-functional teams.
- Develop work plans, manage stakeholders, and oversee project budgets.
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree required; Master's preferred.
- 5-10+ years of procurement leadership experience in direct materials.
- Experience in mature procurement environments and manufacturing/packaging industries.
- Expertise in strategic sourcing, forecasting, benchmarking, RFx, negotiation, and contracting.
- Proven cost-reduction track record and ability to operate in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong analytical, communication, and project-management skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and procurement data systems.
