Strategic Sourcing Category Manager - Direct Materials

Job DescriptionStrategic Sourcing Category Manager – Direct MaterialsLocation: Ashland, MAJOB DESCRIPTION:KiddeFenwal is an industry leader in fire protection and suppression systems, providing innovative solutions across multiple sectors. The Strategic Sourcing Category Manager – Direct Materials plays a key role within KiddeFenwal’s Procurement organization, focusing on optimizing category management across critical direct materials. This includes Chemicals, Gases & Detection Systems, Metals, Steel Cylinders & Fabrication, and Electronics, PVF, Fasteners & Hardware, as outlined in the company's strategic spend categories.The role is responsible for driving procurement strategies that deliver measurable results, contributing to overall company performance, and maintaining robust supplier relationships. The Category Manager will report directly to the Director of Supply Chain and will have a direct impact on procurement efficiencies, cost savings, and supplier performance across key spend categories.DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:Category Strategy Development:Lead strategic sourcing for direct materials categories such as Chemicals & Detection Systems, Metals & Fabrication, and Electronics & Hardware. Develop and execute category-specific sourcing strategies that align with business goals, ensuring category management achieves cost savings and procurement efficiency. Supplier Management:Manage relationships with suppliers across key spend categories (100+ suppliers total), ensuring balanced portfolios and optimal supplier performance. Oversee supplier performance management through regular reviews, KPIs, and audits, ensuring alignment with KiddeFenwal’s objectives. Execute supplier consolidation strategies where applicable, improving procurement efficiencies and fostering strategic partnerships. Spend Control & Cost Savings:Responsible for managing a total category spend of over $100M and delivering 2-3% annual savings across assigned categories. Continuously review and analyze procurement data to ensure KiddeFenwal leverages cost-effective sourcing and total cost of ownership reductions. Cross-Functional Collaboration:Collaborate with key internal stakeholders, including engineering, operations, and finance, to ensure alignment of procurement strategies with overall company goals. Actively participate in cross-functional sourcing teams to ensure strategic alignment and the successful execution of procurement initiatives. Contract Management & Negotiations:Lead contract negotiations with suppliers for the assigned categories, focusing on optimizing contract terms, pricing, and service levels. Ensure compliance with contractual obligations and manage the renewal processes proactively to avoid supply disruptions. Supplier Relationship Management (SRM):Develop and implement SRM programs that support long-term supplier partnerships, driving innovation and continuous improvement in quality and performance. Facilitate business reviews and improvement plans for underperforming suppliers while recognizing top performers with growth opportunities. Continuous Improvement:Champion continuous improvement initiatives that drive procurement process efficiencies and savings across assigned categories. Support the development and enhancement of sourcing tools, including SRM, category management dashboards, and procurement data analytics. REQUIREMENTS: EDUCATION/SKILLS/EXPERIENCEEducation: Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, Business, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree or professional certifications such as CPM or CSCP is preferred. Experience:Minimum of 7 years of experience in strategic sourcing and category management, preferably within the manufacturing, fire protection, or industrial equipment sectors. Proven track record of delivering measurable cost savings and process improvements within direct materials procurement. Experience managing large, complex spend categories, with demonstrated success in supplier negotiations and contract management. Experience with ERP systems (JD Edwards preferred), source-to-pay processes/systems and Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel. Skills & Competencies:Strong negotiation and supplier management skills, with an ability to influence and lead cross-functional teams. Proficient in data analysis and using procurement software and tools such as Excel, PowerPoint, and category management dashboards. Demonstrated leadership ability with excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of working effectively with both internal and external stakeholders. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on strategic sourcing and cost management. Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize in a fast-paced environment. Certifications:APICS CPIM, CPM, or similar supply chain certification is preferred. OTHER QUALIFICATIONS:Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively across teams. Proven record of driving process efficiencies and compliance, supplier compliance and managing performance metrics. Eagerness to learn and apply new procurement strategies in a fast-moving, high-volume environment. Strong organizational skills with an ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines. This role may include managing junior sourcing professionals and leading cross-functional project teams to support company-wide procurement initiatives. EEO/AAP StatementKidde-Fenwal Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other federally protected class.