Category Manager

The Category Manager role provides management expertise for a group of assigned categories by incorporating best practice strategic sourcing principles. This position will support the VP Procurement/Procurement Manager/Category Manager II’s in leading and managing cross-functional teams to ensure optimal value in the supply chain for Wheels and its clients, while ensuring that suppliers and manufacturers are maintaining the desired performance expectations related to their services. This role requires experience in category management techniques, strategic supplier relationship management, RFx processes, contracting processes, and developing & implementing sourcing strategies.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Under the guidance of VP Proc/Proc Manager/Category Manager II, responsible for supporting the strategic sourcing activities for assigned categories to include spend analysis & sourcing strategy development, RFx process, bid evaluation, supplier selection, price & terms negotiations, performance evaluation, etc.
• Responsible for developing in-depth operational knowledge of assigned category areas to ensure an understanding of the supply market dynamics and how they relate to the requirements of Wheels and its clients
• Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, decision-makers, and influencers internally and externally
• Co-ordinate with cross-functional category teams to optimize value including cost savings, cost avoidances, revenue enhancements, and KPI monitoring
• Lead Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) activities for assigned suppliers/categories
• Evaluate new and existing strategic suppliers, fostering relationships to create innovative and collaborative partnerships that achieve competitive advantage.
• Support achievement of departmental annual cost savings/benefits objectives
• Support the annual planning process by developing category forecasts for spend volumes & rebates
• Create and/or improve policies and processes to support improved Procurement and supplier relations
• Other duties assigned to ensure overall departmental efficiency

LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES

• This position has no leadership responsibility.

COMPETENCIES - SKILLS

• Entrepreneurial attitude with the ability to work independently
• Demonstrated ability in building relationships and strategic alliances that motivate internal teams and suppliers to meet strategic objectives
• Proficient in all phases of procurement and possess analytical ability to evaluate strategic options and the impact on the business
• Excellent written and verbal communicator. Strong negotiation skills
• Strong analytical skills to develop complex category strategies
• Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) experience
• Ability to understand supply and service contracts
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Detail oriented with excellent organizational skills

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• BS/BA degree or equivalent experience required
• Degree preferably in Business/Finance/Accounting/Supply Chain
• CPM, CPSM, CPSC certification a plus
• 2-4 years Category Management in a Procurement role
• Supplier Relationship Management (SRM)
• Experience in reading, understanding & negotiating supply, and service contracts
• Proficiency with MS Office Suite (Work, Excel, PowerPoint, PowerBI)
• Ability to work independently, creatively, and efficiently in a dynamic environment
• Strong listening, verbal, and written communication skills
• Solid understanding of strategic sourcing concepts
• Strong negotiation techniques, ability to interface with all levels of management, ability to understand financial benefits.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS, PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Work Environment: This position is in either Alpharetta GA or Schaumburg, Ill and offers a hybrid work schedule that includes working on-site 3 days per week (Tues-Thurs)
• Position Type/Standard Schedule: This is a full-time position, Monday through Friday.
• Travel: <10% travel
   

DISCLAIMER

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Wheels recognizes benefits are a significant part of your employee experience, and we've created a robust benefits package that is market-leading, competitive offerings so you and your family can receive outstanding care. Please click here for an overview of the benefits available to you and your family.

Pay Range:

The base salary range for this position is listed above. This position is eligible to participate in the annual incentive plan which is based on company performance and individual performance. Compensation ranges are based on several factors including job function, level, and geographic location. Final offer amounts are determined by multiple factors including candidate experience, education, certifications, skill level and expertise, and may vary from the amounts listed here.