Category Manager

Category Manager I (Hybrid Allentown, PA or Louisville, KY)

Job Summary: Talent Software Services is in search of a Category Manager for a contract position in Louisville, KY. The opportunity will be nine months with a strong chance for a long-term extension.

Position Summary: The purpose of this job is to manage the supply chain for a wide variety of corporate requirements and issue contractual commitments with an estimated value of up to million per year. Responsible for procuring various Design-Build, construction services, engineered equipment, software, engineering services, commodities, construction project resource requirements and indirect services on a best evaluated total cost of ownership basis, and assuring quality and schedule compliance in accordance with the end user's requirements. This position determines contract models and strategies, determines services and material supply chain models, interfaces and communicates with technical subject matter experts and managers, manages inventory levels, administers contracts, conducts negotiations, performs market/price/financial analysis, develops supplier relationships, tracks and manages supplier performance, and drives continuous improvement and productivity with suppliers and customers. This position is an experienced professional that works independently with minimal supervision and may provide guidance and direction to other employees in support of high quality, timely, and cost-effective resource acquisition activities.

Primary Responsibilities/Accountabilities:

• Develop negotiation strategies and company positions on complex (multi-million dollar) contracts, work with Office of General Counsel to identify and incorporate appropriate levels of commercial protection, and conduct negotiations to achieve the optimal business results for the company.
• Perform market analysis and financial analysis to determine business risk associated with a supplier or contract. Mitigate risk as necessary by using hedges for foreign currency, pursuing performance and payment bonds, or obtaining parental guarantees.
• Analyze and develop company position on claims and disputes and subsequently consult with senior management to resolve/negotiate claims and disputes associated with complex procurements.
• Manage the supply chain process from specification/definition of need through contract administration and investment recovery. Evaluate sources of supply and develop optimal pricing methodology, warranty, and product/service performance requirements. Determine and utilize the most strategic supply chain model to acquire the necessary products and services at the maximum level of savings.
• Identify new sources of supply and potentially acceptable new products/technologies. Establish/maintain professional relationships with suppliers/partners based on the highest ethical business practices as set forth in the Standards of Integrity and PPL's Supply Chain Policies.
• Support complex capital projects (such as software, Software as a Service, Hardware or Services) by working with the project management team to develop the contracting strategy, project plan, identify required resources, acquire necessary products and services, and manage contract performance.
• Be the corporate expert for the assigned category, and know the market drivers, supplier base, emerging technologies, regulatory factors, category spend by supplier, inventory, and fill rate performance. Exhibit ownership of the entire supply chain for the assigned category from cradle to grave.
• Acts as primary liaison to suppliers within assigned category.
• Physical presence in the office/on-site to engage in face-to-face interaction and coordination of work among clients, suppliers and co-workers is required 3 days per week.
• All other duties and projects as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in business, engineering, supply chain, or related field or 5 years of related experience.
• Experience with Microsoft Office tracking changes and redlining
• Redlining experience a requirement
• Experience negotiating contracts (IT contracts will be helpful)
• Able to understand negotiating language
• Minimum of 2 years of logistics, materials, or services buying experience.
• Supply Chain and market knowledge of products, equipment, and services.
• Basic knowledge of business law, commercial terms and conditions, and related legal issues.

Preferred:

• Certified Purchasing Manager (C.P.M) or Certified Professional in Supply Management (C.P.S.M). or other Supply Chain Certification.
• Background in Lean, Six Sigma, or similar process improvement models.
• Strong negotiation and analytical skills.
• Effective written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and databases.
• Demonstrated problem-assessment and problem-solving skills.
• Strong customer service focus supporting an operating company, with ability to build credibility with internal clients and external suppliers.
• Proven project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.