TAIT partners with artists, brands, IP holders and place makers to bring culture-defining, never-before-seen experiences to life. With a legacy of innovation spanning over 45 years, TAIT has grown from pioneering in rock 'n' roll concert staging to setting the global standard for extraordinary live events and experiences through cutting-edge technology, precision engineering, and creative design. TAIT's 20 global offices have developed iconic productions and experiences in over 30 countries, all seven continents, and even outer space for renowned performers, theme parks, exhibits, and venues across the globe, including partnerships with Taylor Swift, Cirque Du Soleil, Royal Opera House, Nike, NASA, Bloomberg, Google, Beyoncé, and The Olympics
Position Summary
We are seeking a highly capable and hands-on Category Manager - Electrical & Controls to lead both strategic sourcing and day-to-day procurement activities for electrical components, control systems, and related technologies. This role is ideal for a procurement professional who thrives in a fast-paced, project-driven manufacturing environment and can balance long-term category strategy with tactical execution. The ideal candidate will bring deep commodity knowledge, supplier management expertise, and a strong sense of urgency to support engineering, production, and project teams.
Essential Responsibilities
Strategic Sourcing & Category Management
Develop and execute commodity strategies to champion and secure total cost of ownership (TCO) reduction for electrical and controls aligned with business goals.
Lead sourcing initiatives, including RFQ/RFP processes, supplier selection, and contract negotiations.
Identify and qualify new suppliers to support innovation, cost reduction, and risk mitigation.
Conduct total cost of ownership (TCO) and should-cost analyses to inform sourcing decisions for electrical and controls spend category
Operational Buying & Execution
Monitor strategy implementation and drive annual productivity improvements in electrical and controls categories.
Manage day-to-day purchasing of electrical components and control systems to meet project and production needs.
Maintain accurate ERP records, assist on major purchase orders, and ensure timely delivery of goods and services.
Resolve supplier issues including shortages, late deliveries, and non-conformances.
Support invoice resolution and collaborate with Finance and Accounting for accurate coding and budget alignment.
Supplier Management
Build and manage supplier relationships, including performance reviews, scorecards, and corrective action plans.
Monitor supplier performance (OTD, quality, responsiveness) and lead resolution of issues.
Conduct supplier risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with Engineering, Quality, Production, and Project Management to align sourcing strategies with technical and operational requirements.
Support new product introductions (NPIs) by ensuring timely sourcing of components and services.
Participate in project meetings to align procurement activities with timelines and deliverables.
Process Improvement & Compliance
Drive continuous improvement in procurement processes, tools, and systems to enhance efficiency and scalability.
Ensure compliance with procurement policies, contract terms, and audit requirements.
Assist in onboarding new suppliers and maintaining supplier master data.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, or related field (MBA or certifications such as CPSM/CIPS preferred).
5 plus years of procurement experience, with a focus on electrical, controls, or technical commodities in a manufacturing or project-based environment.
Demonstrated success in both strategic sourcing and tactical buying.
Strong understanding of electrical components, control systems, and associated supply markets.
Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., Epicor, SAP, Oracle, NetSuite).
Excellent communication, analytical, negotiation, and project management skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.
Advanced sourcing toolkit and supply base management familiarity (should-cost, design to value, etc.)
Preferred Attributes
Familiarity with engineering drawings and technical specifications.
Experience with global sourcing and supplier qualification processes.
Knowledge of compliance standards and sustainable procurement practices.
Experience leading cross-functional teams and driving change initiatives.
TAIT Benefits:
Competitive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contributions (HDHP plans)
Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical & Dependent Care)
Employer-paid life insurance with optional supplemental coverage
Employer-paid Short-term with optional long-term disability insurance
401(k) retirement plan with company match
Paid parental leave
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Wellness stipends
Voluntary benefits (e.g., accident, critical illness)
Paid vacation and 12 holidays
#LI-ML1
TAIT is an equal opportunity employer fully committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran or any other protected characteristic as outlined by international, national, state, or local laws.