The Category Manager directs and coordinates the procurement activities within the assigned category group(s).  The Category Manager is responsible for the development and execution of the strategy for the respective category(ies).  The Category Manager ensures that the strategy developed is dynamic and responsive to the market, customer, supplier, and company needs. This individual may have primary responsibility for key supplier relationships and drives supplier selection and contracting process.  The role requires robust negotiation skills, advanced contract management expertise, and the ability to build and maintain effective vendor partnerships.  The Category Manager spearheads scope development with input from stakeholders, analyzes proposals and quotes received and recommends suppliers. This position is responsible for managing and delivering strong results that support the goals of the organization and provide significant value.  This position may have direct reports.

Description of Major Duties and Responsibilities 

• Manage resources to effectively support one or more category groups (may include people management responsibilities)  

• Decide how work is assigned within the category team  

• Develop sourcing strategies based on in-depth category / industry knowledge  

• Advise customers on procurement process and recommend sourcing/contracting solutions  

• Advise stakeholders on prioritization of pending requests based on customer requirements  

• Able to influence internal customers to achieve mutually beneficial solutions  

• Assist internal customers in drafting scopes of services and requirements as needed. 

• Conduct research of potential suppliers, develop RFx events, develop and manage contracts, conduct price and terms  

• Develop trust-based relationships with key partners (ex. Legal, EHC) and Business stakeholders as well as seek new internal customer relationships.  

• Drive internal compliance with Procurement policies, procedures, strategies, and guidelines on an ongoing basis. 

• Establish and manage key supplier performance goals and objectives in partnership with the business 

• Maintain continuous in-depth knowledge of market conditions, industry trends, and developing technologies, etc. in the assigned category group(s) 

• Negotiate agreements that protect the organization and maximize value.  

• Negotiate and award purchase orders/contracts 

• Participate with leadership to establish strategic plans and objectives. 

• Procurement-driven cost savings. 

Experience and/or Certifications required 

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field (If no degree, 10 years of experience required) 

• 5-10 years of experience in corporate procurement (Indirect preferred) and/or supply chain management with 3-5 years in a leadership role 

• Procurement experience with ability to complete financial analysis, contracting, and complex assessments (TCO, ROI, NPV) 

• Proven negotiating skills with a strong comprehension of price/cost analysis 

• Proven experience with supplier management, contract negotiation, and competitive bidding. 

• Solid analytical skills with the ability to evaluate market trends and supplier performance. 

• Experience in drafting and reviewing contracts, with a focus on scope, pricing, and compliance. 

• Proficient negotiation, clear communication, and solid interpersonal skills. 

• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities proficiently. 

• Must possess the ability to translate research into preliminary recommendations  

• Highly collaborative team-oriented individual with proven ability to build relationships 

• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills  

• Strong organization, time management, and planning skills  

• Experience using SAP Ariba solution is a plus 

• Excellent PC skills with emphasis on Microsoft Office 365 including Excel, PowerPoint, and Word 

• CPM/CPSM certification a plus. 

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If you have a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact JM Family’s Talent Acquisition department at [email protected] for assistance. If you have an accommodation request for one of our recruiting events, please notify us at least 72 hours prior so that we may provide assistance.