Job DescriptionPOSITION SUMMARYVertiv is seeking a Senior Category Manager to drive category strategy execution, delivering total cost optimization, supply continuity, and operational excellence. This role works cross-functionally with Marketing, Engineering, Operations, and strategic suppliers to lead complex sourcing initiatives, manage critical supplier relationships, and produce measurable financial and operational results, while advancing procurement integration and continuous improvement efforts.
RESPONSIBILITIESCategory Strategy & Cross-Functional Leadership- Develop, communicate, and refine category strategies in collaboration with Marketing, Engineering, Materials Management, Regional Operations, and key suppliers.
- Build strong cross-functional relationships to align sourcing strategies with business and product priorities.
- Lead strategic and tactical sourcing initiatives to support growth, innovation, and cost competitiveness.
- Act as the primary interface between Vertiv's category management organization, key stakeholders, and local purchasing teams to ensure consistent execution of category strategies for Direct and Indirect (including CapEx) categories.
Supplier & Commercial Management- Manage commercial relationships with strategic suppliers, including contracts, pricing, lead times, inventory, and quality performance.
- Ensure all required legal and supplemental agreements are executed to support supply continuity and optimization.
- Lead negotiations supported by cost analysis and should-cost models assessments.
- Manage program budgets and lead initiatives to reduce waste and improve sourcing efficiency.
Performance Management & Reporting- Oversee and report category performance, including:
- Technology and innovation trends
- Material inflation planning, risk mitigation, and cost reduction aligned to Annual Operating Plan (AOP) targets
- Supply base strategy, preferred supplier lists, and tier-2 supply planning
- Partner with Quality to drive continuous improvement and supplier performance feedback.
- Monitor, evaluate and report monthly KPI summary to ensure alignment with short-term and long-term strategy for each category.
Process Optimization & Integration- Lead procurement integration initiatives, deliver synergy targets, and provide regular updates to leadership.
- Champion best practices and continuous improvement while ensuring compliance with Vertiv procurement policies.
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, or related field preferred.
- 10-12 years of experience in direct and indirect category management.
- Experience with ERP systems (Oracle, SAP) and advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
- Expertise in Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), market analysis, and KPI development.
- Strong negotiation, analytical, presentation, and communication skills.
- Proven ability to manage complex initiatives and build strong relationships in a global, cross-functional environment.
PHYSICAL & ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDSTIME TRAVEL REQUIRED: The successful candidate will embrace Vertiv's Core Principals & Behaviors to help execute our Strategic Priorities.
OUR CORE PRINCIPALS: Safety. Integrity. Respect. Teamwork. Diversity & Inclusion.
OUR STRATEGIC PRIORITIES- Customer Focus
- Operational Excellence
- High-Performance Culture
- Innovation
- Financial Strength
OUR BEHAVIORS- Own It
- Act With Urgency
- Foster a Customer-First Mindset
- Think Big and Execute
- Lead by Example
- Drive Continuous Improvement
- Learn and Seek Out Development
- Promote Transparent and Open Communication
