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Retail Jobs in Minneapolis, MN

Category Manager

HireTalent

Minneapolis, MN

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JOB DETAILS
SKILLS
Analysis Skills, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Business Plan, Business Strategy, Business Support, Candidate Sourcing, Category Development, Category Management, Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), Cloud Computing, Consulting, Continuous Improvement, Contract Analysis, Contract Law, Contract Negotiation, Contract Requirements, Cost Control, Cost Modeling, Cross-Functional, Demand Forecasting/Planning, Ecosystems, Emerging Technology, Establish Priorities, Finance, Industry/Trade Analysis, Interpersonal Skills, Leadership, Logistics, Maintain Compliance, Market Analysis, Materials Management, Microsoft Office, Multitasking, Negotiation Skills, Onboarding, Operational Improvement, Operational Support, Performance Analysis, Performance Management, Performance Metrics, Pricing, Problem Solving Skills, Process Improvement, Project Planning, Project/Program Coordination, Project/Program Management, Purchasing/Procurement, Regulatory Compliance, Risk, Risk Management, Scorecarding, Sourcing Strategy, Supplier Relationship Management (SRM), Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Technical Strategy, Vendor/Supplier Evaluation, Vendor/Supplier Management, Vendor/Supplier Planning, Vendor/Supplier Relations, Vendor/Supplier Selection, eSourcing
LOCATION
Minneapolis, MN
POSTED
3 days ago

Overview

We are seeking a Category Manager to lead strategic sourcing initiatives and manage high-impact categories across the business. This role is responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies, leading supplier negotiations, and driving cost optimization, operational efficiency, and long-term value.
The ideal candidate combines strong sourcing expertise with the ability to manage complex supplier relationships, contracts, and cross-functional initiatives in a dynamic environment.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute category strategies to optimize cost, improve operations, and support business objectives
  • Lead competitive sourcing events, including supplier evaluation, selection, and onboarding
  • Conduct detailed analysis of supply markets, demand forecasts, pricing, and should-cost models
  • Monitor industry trends and supplier risk profiles to ensure strategies remain current and effective
  • Manage Tier 1 supplier relationships, driving performance improvements in cost, quality, and delivery
  • Develop supplier scorecards and track performance metrics
  • Lead resolution of supplier disputes and drive continuous improvement initiatives
Contracting & Negotiations
  • Lead negotiations and execute contracts aligned with category and business strategies
  • Review, analyze, and negotiate contract changes, work orders, and claims
  • Ensure supplier compliance with contractual obligations
  • Apply contract law principles to minimize risk and protect organizational interests
Program & Project Management
  • Create and manage project plans to implement category strategies
  • Coordinate across multiple programs and prioritize enterprise-wide impact
  • Align sourcing initiatives with broader business project plans
  • Drive continuous improvement across suppliers, business units, and supply chain functions
Strategic & Technical Focus
  • Support sourcing strategies for emerging technologies including AI, cloud, and platform ecosystems
  • Manage supplier engagements for consulting services and staff augmentation
  • Enable rapid contract execution to support evolving business needs
  • Collaborate with leadership to forecast demand and anticipate future vendor requirements

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor s degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, Finance, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
  • 5+ years of experience in sourcing, procurement, or supply chain management
  • Strong experience in contract negotiation and supplier management
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and sourcing/procurement systems
  • Demonstrated analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
  • Strong interpersonal and stakeholder management skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive results across complex programs

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with sourcing in technology categories (AI, cloud, platforms, consulting services)
  • Knowledge of contract law and risk management practices
  • Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or similar certification
  • Experience in logistics, inventory strategy, or materials management
  • Proven ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and influence senior stakeholders

About the Company

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