Category Manager

Category Manager

We are partnering with a global advanced manufacturing organization to appoint a Category Manager to support a strategic spend portfolio across custom engineered components and supplier partnerships. This is a highly visible position responsible for developing category strategies, managing key supplier relationships, and driving cost, quality, and delivery improvements across an international manufacturing network.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category and supplier strategies that align with business objectives and long-term operational goals.
• Manage strategic supplier relationships, including performance reviews, commercial negotiations, and business review meetings.
• Lead sourcing initiatives focused on cost optimization, supply continuity, risk reduction, and supplier performance improvement.
• Collaborate closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Operations teams to support production and new product requirements.
• Evaluate supplier capabilities, manufacturing processes, and cost structures to identify value creation opportunities.
• Negotiate contracts, pricing agreements, and long-term commercial arrangements with domestic and international suppliers.
• Support supplier development initiatives, qualification activities, and continuous improvement programs.
• Monitor market trends, capacity constraints, and supply risks while developing mitigation strategies.
• Drive projects related to productivity, cost savings, supplier consolidation, and category optimization.
• Maintain strong communication with stakeholders and suppliers to ensure alignment on priorities and performance expectations.

Experience Required

• 5+ years of experience in Strategic Sourcing, Procurement, Commodity Management, Category Management, Supplier Management, or Purchasing within a manufacturing environment.
• Must have experience with plastics
• Experience managing externally manufactured components, engineered products, or custom production-related categories.
• Proven track record of supplier negotiations, cost reduction initiatives, and supplier performance management.
• Experience working cross-functionally with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Operations teams.
• Exposure to global suppliers and international sourcing activities is preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, Operations, or a related discipline preferred.

Key Skills

• Category Management: Ability to develop and execute category strategies that support operational and commercial objectives.
• Supplier Management: Experience building long-term supplier partnerships and driving measurable performance improvements.
• Commercial Negotiation: Strong contract negotiation and cost management capabilities.
• Manufacturing Knowledge: Understanding of manufacturing processes, component cost drivers, and supplier production environments.
• Technical Aptitude: Ability to work effectively with engineering teams and evaluate technical supplier requirements.
• Project Management: Experience leading multiple sourcing and supplier initiatives simultaneously.
• Relationship Management: Strong communication and stakeholder management skills across all levels of the organization.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to evaluate supplier performance, cost structures, and sourcing opportunities to drive informed decisions.

This opportunity offers exposure to a global supply chain environment, significant supplier ownership, and a clear path for professional growth within a stable and highly respected manufacturing organization. Candidates with experience sourcing technical components and managing strategic supplier relationships are encouraged to apply.