Category Procurement Manager

Position Summary

The Procurement Category Manager is responsible for developing and executing category strategies across North America to drive cost competitiveness, supply continuity, and operational efficiency. This role supports the transition from site-based purchasing to a centralized, strategic category management model, with ownership of supplier strategy, sourcing, and category performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement category develop and implement category strategies aligned with business and operational objectives
• Analyze spend, demand, and market conditions to identify cost savings and value opportunities
• Lead strategic sourcing activities, including RFQs, negotiations, and supplier selection
• Develop, negotiate, and execute regional and multi-site contracts
• Ensure disciplined execution and compliance with purchase orders against established agreements
• Drive contract utilization and reduce maverick spend across sites
• Establish and manage long-term supplier relationships
• Segment suppliers (strategic vs. transactional) and manage accordingly
• Lead supplier performance management using KPIs, scorecards, and business reviews
• Deliver measurable cost savings, cost avoidance, and working capital improvements
• Track and report category performance (cost, service, quality, risk)
• Identify and mitigate supply risks and develop business continuity plans
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, regulatory, and ESG requirements
• Partner with cross-functional teams to support cost reduction and operations
• Align supplier capacity with demand forecasts
• Standardize materials, specifications, and supply base across North America
• Drive adoption of centralized procurement processes across sites
• Support procurement transformation and system implementation

Requirements:

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field
• 5–10+ years of experience in procurement, sourcing, category management, or supply chain management
• Demonstrated experience in category management and supplier negotiations
• Experience in a multi-site manufacturing environment preferred

Skills and Competencies

• Strong strategic thinking and analytical capabilities
• Effective negotiation and supplier management skills
• Ability to influence and collaborate across a matrixed organization
• Proficiency in data analysis, cost modeling, and financial evaluation
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills