Category Manager - Mechanical
Role Overview
This position combines strategic procurement leadership with advanced supply chain planning and master scheduling. The role involves overseeing the sourcing and procurement of critical infrastructure equipment, ensuring continuity, efficiency, and scalability across the supply chain. It requires close collaboration with Engineering, Construction, Finance, Operations, and Supplier teams to support high-performance infrastructure buildouts. The focus is on speed of delivery rather than solely cost or total cost of ownership (TCO) optimization.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute sourcing strategies for critical mechanical systems.
- Lead competitive sourcing events, supplier negotiations, and contract management with a focus on resilience, quality, and scalability.
- Collaborate with Engineering and Design teams to align specifications with supplier capabilities.
- Implement supplier risk mitigation strategies, dual-sourcing models, and cost optimization initiatives.
- Manage Master Production Schedules (MPS) based on demand forecasts and capacity constraints.
- Prioritize speed of delivery in planning and procurement decisions.
- Monitor KPIs such as on-time delivery, inventory turns, and production efficiency.
- Work cross-functionally with Sales, Operations, Procurement, and Logistics to balance supply and demand.
- Utilize APS tools and ERP systems to improve forecast accuracy and scheduling.
- Oversee the lifecycle of Owner-Furnished Contractor Installed (OFCI) equipment from purchase through commissioning.
- Coordinate logistics for shipping, rigging, and storage of major equipment.
- Ensure data integrity across systems through documentation and audits.
- Develop playbooks, training materials, and process documentation.
- Lead digital transformation efforts to automate workflows.
- Define and monitor supplier KPIs, SLAs, and business review cadences.
- Build strong relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
- Support change management for project updates and budget realignments.
Candidate Profile
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Mechanical Engineering, Business Administration, Operations, or related field (Master's preferred).
- 3+ years of experience in inventory management within cloud infrastructure or a related industry.
- Strong understanding of construction and critical mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems.
- Skilled in contract negotiations, supplier management, and risk mitigation.
- Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Netsuite), APS tools, and planning software.
- Proven ability to manage high-value contracts and multi-vendor strategies.
- Track record of implementing new processes and driving performance improvements.
- Willingness to travel to project sites, vendor facilities, and industry events.
FAQs
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