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Husqvarna Construction in Olathe, KS is hiring a Category Buyer who will develop and execute strategic sourcing strategies that optimize the supply base, reduce Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), and align with Husqvarna Construction's operational sustainability goals. This role requires advanced analytical, negotiation, and leadership skills to drive long-term value across the supply chain.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Sourcing & Category Leadership (30%)
- Develop and implement global and regional category strategies
- Conduct supply market analysis and lead complex, enterprise-wide sourcing initiatives and contract negotiations.
- Drive sourcing activities in New Product Development (NPD)/Supply, Processing, Distribution (SPD) projects aligned with category strategy.
- Research and qualify new potential new vendors that have the ability to support organizational needs. Assess vendor's products and services. Negotiate pricing and contract terms.
Cost & Risk Management (40%)
- Apply TCO principles to sourcing decisions.
- Monitor commodity price trends and develop risk mitigation strategies.
- Lead fact-based negotiations and drive commercial cost down initiatives
- Maintain a working knowledge of current business trends including industry changes, cost drivers, pricing, market conditions and economic indicators in order to identify new or alternative suppliers as needed.
- Actively initiate, drive and implement cost saving initiatives while maintaining high standards of quality and service.
Supplier Relationship & Compliance (30%)
- Manage contracts covering pricing, quality, delivery, and sustainability.
- Develop and ensure proper agreements (MSA, SOW, etc.) are in place with vendors that adhere to internal compliance with ethical, environmental and governance standards.
- Responsible for fostering strategic supplier relationships to support innovation and resilience.
- Responsible for supplier performance within their categories. Evaluate current vendor is a viable business partner and is compliant in meeting the terms of the contract and that processes are in place for vendor non-compliance to the term of the contract
- Collaborate and maintain close communication with Plant Operations, Logistics, Quality and Engineering department to understand their needs and provide timely procurement solutions. • Support site level needs and escalate as appropriate.
COMPETENCIES
Position-specific Competencies
- Strong understanding of procurement best practices
- Ability to interpret complex data, uncover underlying trends, and identify root causes of challenges.
- Ability to utilize analytical tools (i.e. spend analysis, cost modeling) to generate actionable insights that inform sourcing strategies and deliver measurable value.
- Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Maintain high level of attention to detail and holds self and others accountable
- Ability to multitask and handle multiple projects without losing focus
- Able to solve new or unfamiliar problems and trouble-shoot problems independently
- Leads change initiatives and aligns sourcing goals with business objectives
CRITICAL FUNCTIONAL SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE
- Solid knowledge of AS400
- Solid knowledge of MRP processes and basic inventory principles
- Solid knowledge of SAP
- Solid knowledge of Microsoft Office with emphasis on Excel
- Solid negotiation and strategic mindset
- Solid Customer Service Orientation
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor's Degree in Business or Supply Chain Management preferred, not required.
- 5+ years' experience Strategic Buyer or Category Management experience or relevant business experience preferably in a manufacturing environment required
- Proven experience in strategic sourcing, procurement and contract negotiation
We Offer:
- A competitive salary.
- A full benefits package, including medical/dental/vision insurance, at date of hire.
- A 401(k) with matching and no vesting.
- An employee purchase discount on Husqvarna products.
- An education assistance program.
- Paid parental leave.
- Eleven (11) paid holidays.
- . . . and more!
Husqvarna is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer committed to providing equal opportunity in all of our employment practices, including selection, hiring, assignment, re-assignment, promotion, transfer, compensation, discipline and termination. Husqvarna prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation in employment based on race; color; religion; national origin; gender; sexual orientation; pregnancy; age; disability; service member status; or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.