Graco manufactures and markets premium equipment to move, measure, control, dispense and spray a wide variety of fluid and powder materials. What does that mean? Well, we pump peanut butter into your jar, and the oil in your car. We glue the soles of your shoes, the glass in your windows and the screen on your phone. We spray the finish on your vehicle, coatings on your pills, the paint on your house and texture on your walls. Graco is part of your daily life.

The Category Manager participates in all and develops some aspects of Graco’s global sourcing strategy.  Ensures annual improvement in the total cost, quality, and service for the assigned commodities.  Fully understands the business units and manufacturing requirements, and implements a procurement process to meet specific needs.  The Category Manager will effectively and creatively use supplier resources early in the design process and to bring new technologies to Graco.

What You Will Do at Graco

• Execute, develop and implement sourcing strategies to support corporate and divisional objections, providing Graco a competitive advantage in the areas of materials, supplies, and services.

• Identify, analyze, and develop a consolidated supplier base to meet current and future procurement needs.

• Create and maintain mutually beneficial partnerships with suppliers to foster feedback and continuous improvement.

• Negotiate and manage simple to complex contracts and agreements for assigned commodities in accordance with Graco's objectives, policies and procedures.

• Lead the supplier selection process within a cross-functional team.

• Manage suppliers, cost, quality, and delivery performance.

• Understand, track, and forecast the key cost drivers for assigned commodities.

• Implement appropriate sourcing strategies to control Graco’s purchased material costs and to assure an adequate source of supply.

• Support new product development from the concept stage through successful product launch.

• Support the Planners and other manufacturing partners on tactical needs, as required.

• Drive continuous improvement in all aspects of the procurement process.

• Effectively represent the department on cross-functional teams.

• May provide work direction to lower level Procurement staff.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

What You Bring to Graco

• Bachelors degree in Business, Engineering, Materials Management or equivalent.

• 3+  years of materials or manufacturing experience.

• Technical expertise for design considerations through materials, processes, and applications.

• Ability to handle complex negotiations and contracts, including private label agreements and international procurement.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Interpersonal skills to correspond effectively with all levels of the organization.

• PC and related software (Word, Excel, Access, Database Management, etc.)experience.

• Ability to perform detailed Corporate Category studies and market research worldwide.

• Intermediate knowledge of contract law.

• Ability to create and execute contracts, agreements, and business plans.

• Experience in analysis and resolution of complex sourcing problems requiring multi-functional participation.

• Proven ability to exceed individual and department goals.

• Experience as a key resource for product development teams.

• Ability to read and comprehend engineering blueprints and specifications desired

Accelerators

• Global industrial manufacturing experience and knowledge.

• MBA or advanced degree preferred.

• C.P.M. certification desired

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At Graco, you truly make a difference. Your unique talents contribute to our organizational growth and future. Not only do you make a difference, but Graco’s culture empowers employees to create their own career path. Whether you choose to advance within your current department or explore new opportunities in different divisions, you have the ability to build your future. Our managers are here to provide support and guidance as you continue to grow within your career.

Graco has excellent opportunities available to individuals who want to be part of a fast-moving, growing company that is committed to quality, innovation and solving fluid handling problems for our customers. Graco is proud to be named a Best Place to Work by Fortune Magazine in 2016, 2018, 2019, 2021 & 2022. Graco offers attractive compensation, benefits and career development opportunities. Graco’s comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, stock purchase plan, 401(k), tuition reimbursement and more.

Our company uses E-Verify to confirm the employment and eligibility of all newly hired employees. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify.