Job Title: Category Manager

Job Description

Our leading manufacturing client is looking to bring in a category manager. They will be responsible for end-to-end vendor management including vendor initiation, negotiations, and contract management.

• Responsible for all commercial relationships with assigned suppliers within the Indirect commodity areas, securing targeted levels of cost, quality, delivery precision, sustainability, etc.

• Working closely with internal stakeholders in identifying cost savings opportunities and understanding their needs

• Responsible for cradle-to-grave contract management including, but not limited to: preparation of competitive bid packages, analysis of responses, contract drafting, document routing, contract management, and vendor performance.

•Coordinating with internal stakeholders to develop requirements documents

• Based on strategic direction from Indirect Manager, develop and implement assigned commodity strategies that meet internal and external customer demands in a cost efficient way

• Drive value by implementing strategic sourcing and entering into cost efficient agreements that fulfil service and supply requirements with assigned suppliers.

• Drive supplier performance, contract effectiveness, collaboration and integration and deliver improved results with key suppliers.. Responsible for supplier performance and rating based on Key Performance Metrics (KPI) for Quality, Delivery, and Cost.

• Develop and implement approved strategies for assigned commodities that actively search for performance improvement and cost reduction opportunities by understanding customer needs, supply market trends and innovation

• Conduct detailed demand, spend, cost and market analysis and a structured approach to tendering and negotiating with suppliers.

• Be the main liaison between internal stakeholders and suppliers for the procurement of goods and services.

• Finding and developing new suppliers, if needed.

• Manage and ensure compliance with all relevant Procurement Policies and Procedures.

• Provide monthly reporting on KPIs to include cost savings, cash flow improvements and contract coverage

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration or relevant field; Master’s Degree and recognized certification in Purchasing/Sourcing preferred

• Minimum 5 years experience in an indirect sourcing role, including negotiations, managing supplier relationships, project management and contract formation

• Previous experience in high-volume fast-paced manufacturing environment including off site plant and warehouse support including MRO commodities experience

preferred

• Extensive knowledge of the purchasing environment for indirect corporate services with the capability to analyze business procurement issues, recommend solutions and

strategies and implement changes

• Strong knowledge of the strategic sourcing methodology and its application (e.g. fact based negotiations and cross functional team collaboration)

• Strong knowledge of contract formation for indirect services

• Demonstrated ability to effectively manage strategic supplier relationships, including relationship building, performance, development, and mitigating supplier risk issues

• Strong negotiation skills, including an understanding of legal terms and conditions

• Strong analytical skills, including a demonstrated ability to synthesize, interpret, and communicate market and competitive data

• Proficient in MS Office software applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project)

• Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding proprietary company information

• Ability to travel up to 30% to domestic and/or international sites as required

About Aston Carter:

Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® double diamond winner for both client and talent service.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Aston Carter, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I are embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent

• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection

• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes

• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com (%20astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com) for other accommodation options.