Category Manager

Position Overview: The Category Manager is responsible for developing and executing category strategies to optimize sourcing, supplier relationships, and cost efficiencies. This role involves analyzing market trends, negotiating contracts, managing vendor performance, and working closely with internal teams to ensure product availability, quality, and pricing align with business goals. The Category Manager plays a critical role in driving profitability and enhancing the overall procurement strategy. RESPONSIBILITIES:Develop and implement strategic sourcing plans for assigned product categories to drive cost savings, quality improvements, and supplier performance.Analyze market trends, pricing fluctuations, and supplier capabilities to optimize category management decisions.Negotiate pricing, contracts, and service agreements with vendors to ensure competitive terms and long-term partnerships.Monitor category spend, cost-saving initiatives, and key performance indicators to drive continuous improvement.Collaborate with internal teams, including operations, finance, and merchandising, to align procurement strategies with business objectives.Evaluate supplier performance using scorecards, audits, and key metrics to ensure compliance with contractual obligations and quality standards.Optimize product assortment, demand planning, and inventory levels to balance cost efficiency with availability.Identify new sourcing opportunities, alternative suppliers, and product innovations to enhance category growth.Ensure compliance with company procurement policies, industry regulations, and ethical sourcing standards.Report category performance, market insights, and procurement strategies to senior leadership.Perform other duties as assigned Environment:Warehouse Office – approx. 65F – 75FSchedule:Monday - Friday8:00am - 5:00pmTravel up to 25%Compensation:$85,000 - $105,000Experience:Preferred: Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Procurement, or a related field.Preferred: 5+ years of experience in procurement, category management, or strategic sourcing.Preferred: Proficiency in category management, supplier negotiations, and cost analysis.Preferred: Proficiency in ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, Ariba) and procurement software.Preferred: Proficiency in supply chain logistics, demand forecasting, and inventory management.Preferred: Proficiency in English (written and verbal) to effectively communicate with associates and leadership Skills:Physical abilities: Ability to stand, walk and sit throughout your day; Walking on a variety of flooring such as carpet, concrete, tile etc;Strong communication Skills: Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with peers and leaders on a daily basisOrganizational Skills: Ability to prioritize and meet deadlines; project management Working in a team based environment: Working independently and as a team player to ensure our customers are receiving orders timely and with the highest quality Quality: Maintain integrity and high standards from all perspectivesSafety Culture: Maintain and drive safety policies to all associates; driving for accountability of safe practices throughout shift