Category Manager, Metal Fabrication
*** This role can offer remote flexibility; however, candidates must be based in SC, NC, CT, or MI.***
ABOUT THE ROLE
A leading global industrial manufacturer is seeking a strategic Category Manager to lead sourcing across its Metal Fabrication and Structural Components portfolio in North America. This role will drive category strategy, supplier optimization, and cost competitiveness across a complex network of fabrication suppliers supporting high-volume production.
The position requires deep experience across sheet metal, stampings, castings, forgings, tubing, and welded assemblies, with a strong focus on cost structure analysis, supplier development, and long-term sourcing strategy execution. This is a high-impact, cross-functional role partnering closely with engineering, operations, and quality to enable scalable and cost-effective production.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develop and execute category strategies across metal fabrication commodities, including: Sheet metal & stampings, Castings & forgings, Tubing & structural components, Welded assemblies and fabricated subcomponents), aligned with global procurement objectives to optimize cost, ensure supply continuity, and mitigate risk.
- Lead dual sourcing, supplier consolidation, and sourcing footprint optimization to improve cost position and mitigate risk
- Conduct detailed cost breakdown analysis (materials, labor, tooling, fabrication processes) to support should-cost modeling and negotiation strategies
- Drive cost savings initiatives through competitive sourcing, supplier benchmarking, and value engineering
- Deliver measurable cost savings and value creation, with a results-oriented mindset and the ability to build and execute savings plans, track performance, and lead business reviews.
- Negotiate and implement long-term agreements (LTAs), including pricing frameworks, payment terms, and escalation mechanisms
- Manage and develop a network of fabrication suppliers and contract manufacturers, driving improvements in cost, quality, delivery, and capacity
- Lead supplier design reviews, ensuring manufacturability, cost efficiency, and alignment with technical specifications.
- Lead supplier performance management, including KPIs, business reviews, and corrective action plans, building long-term strategic relationships
- Partner with Engineering to support design-to-cost, manufacturability, and product standardization initiatives
- Support new product introductions and product changes, ensuring supplier readiness and cost alignment
- Monitor market dynamics (raw material trends, geopolitical shifts, tariffs) and adapt sourcing strategies accordingly
- Provide leadership with clear visibility into category performance, cost drivers, and strategic opportunities
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, or related field
- 7-10+ years of experience in strategic sourcing or category management within metal fabrication environments
- Strong knowledge of fabrication processes (stamping, casting, forging, machining, welding, forming)
- Proven track record of cost savings, supplier negotiations, and category strategy execution
- Experience working with build-to-print suppliers and fabrication job shops
- Strong analytical skills with experience in cost modeling and data-driven decision making
- Ability to operate effectively in a cross-functional, matrixed global manufacturing environment
FAQs
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