Category Manager, Process

Overview: Gray Construction is seeking a Category Manager, Process to be based in the Lexington, KY Office. Experience in the Construction Industry is required. : Why Gray? Gray is a top-ranked design-build contractor offering architecture, engineering, procurement, and construction services to domestic and international customers throughout the U.S. It’s the spirit of the people at Gray – passion, commitment, and a great team environment – that makes our company a great place to work. Our purpose is to make a difference in people’s lives by creating unforgettable customer experiences and great projects. The people of Gray exemplify our core values: we put safety and quality of life first, we are customer and relationship driven and we demonstrate the golden rule - we treat others the way we want to be treated. Who we want… (Requirements) A qualified candidate shall have: Minimum 5 years’ experience in strategic sourcing, supply chain management, team leadership and/or bachelor’s degree (equivalent combination of experience and education will be considered) - Engineering Experience in ANY of the following: o Wastewater / Water Treatment Systems o Chemical or Gas Systems o Heavy Industrial / Tanks / Pumps o Specialty Process Equipment A desire to grow their skills and abilities within the department Passion for building relationships, collaborating, and developing professionally Ability to assist less experienced procurement team members Discipline and motivation to participate in a team environment Excellent organizational skills Experience and basic command of the most recent versions of Microsoft Office Ability to adapt to new software, such as Procore, Smartsheet, CMIC, Building Connected, Bluebeam, PowerBI (experience is a plus but not required) This position will require being physically present in the Lexington office (hybrid and remote may be considered). If you are a high achiever striving to exceed expectations in a fast-paced innovative company, then Gray is the place for you. : What we expect… (Essential Functions) Responsibilities are expected to be, but are not limited to, the following: 1. Category Strategy Development: Develop and implement comprehensive category strategies for process equipment. Analyze market trends, supply base, and internal demand to identify opportunities for cost savings and value creation. Lead and collaborate with cross-functional teams to align category strategies with business objectives. 2. Supplier Management: Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers based on quality, cost, and reliability. (SRM- supplier relationship management ) Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure Safety, Quality, Performance and continuous improvement. Lead Master Purchase Agreements negotiations with assistance from Contract Manager and leadershipto negotiate and manage contracts 3. Sourcing & Procurement Management: Lead the Sourcing team in end-to-end sourcing process for process equipment, including RFQs, RFPs, and supplier negotiations. Ensure compliance with procurement policies and procedures. Monitor and manage the performance of suppliers to ensure timely delivery and adherence to specifications. 4. Cost Management: Drive cost reduction initiatives through strategic sourcing, supplier negotiations, and process improvements. Identify and implement opportunities for total cost of ownership (TCO) reduction. Market understanding and work with analyst to track, monitor commodity and cost drivers. 5. Risk Management: Manage risk relating to safety, cost, delivery, performance guarantees, quality and warranty. Assess and mitigate risks associated with the supply chain, including supplier financial stability, geopolitical risks, and market volatility. Develop contingency plans to address potential supply disruptions. 6. Performance Metrics and Reporting: Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) for the category, such as cost savings, supplier performance, and sourcing cycle times. Analyze proposal success and work with data analytics team to create supplier statistics Prepare and present regular reports on category performance to senior management. 7. Continuous Improvement: Stay abreast of industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices in process equipment procurement. In coordination with senior management, establish and enforce best practices in procurement to ensure all equipment is purchased and delivered within budget and time constraints, while monitoring ongoing compliance with purchasing policies and procedures Participate in continuous improvement of procurement processes and policies to accommodate changing organizational needs and market conditions Supervisory Responsibilities This position has supervisory responsibilities over assistant category managers and specialists. Physical Demands & Work Environment The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a team member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this position, the team member is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, use hands, reach with hands or arms and talk or hear. They may occasionally be required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, or crouch. Normal office environment where noise level is moderate, and temperature/humidity is controlled. Overtime and some travel may be required. EEO Disclaimer Our Company will be proactive in employing and advancing qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other protected status. #LI-AA1