Category Manager, Data Center Equipment
The Category Manager leads global sourcing and category strategy for Data Center Construction & Cooling, with a primary focus on cooling equipment and related services for OFCI builds. This role manages a large, complex spend portfolio and drives end‑to‑end category management, supplier strategy, and capacity planning to support multi‑site data center expansion.
This role is hybrid onsite 3 days a week in Irving, TX.
Key Responsibilities
Category Strategy & Sourcing
- Develop and execute global category strategies for construction and cooling.
- Lead the full source‑to‑contract process, including market analysis, RFP/RFQ management, negotiations, and contract execution.
- Create region‑specific sourcing strategies aligned with build plans and technology needs.
Supply & IBP Integration
- Integrate demand forecasts and build schedules into sourcing and supplier capacity plans.
- Align with construction, engineering, and program teams to support on‑time, cost‑effective delivery.
Supplier Management
- Manage supplier performance across cost, quality, delivery, and capacity.
- Build strategic partnerships to support scale, innovation, and long‑term capacity.
- Identify and mitigate supply and execution risks.
Spend Governance & Analytics
- Oversee category spend analytics, forecasting, and cost modeling.
- Ensure adherence to budgets and contractual commitments.
- Drive continuous improvement in sourcing, contracting, and governance processes.
Cross‑Functional Leadership
- Partner with engineering, construction, finance, legal, and operations teams.
- Operate effectively in complex, multi‑entity environments.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Construction, Engineering, Business, or related field.
- 12+ years in category management, sourcing, procurement, or supply chain leadership.
- Experience managing large construction or infrastructure spend.
- Knowledge of data center cooling and OFCI delivery models.
- Strong commercial, analytical, and communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Certifications such as CPSM, CSCP, CPM, or CIPS.
- Experience with hyperscale or large data center programs.
- Familiarity with OFCI contracting and global, matrixed organizations.
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your resume and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organizations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
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