Category Manager - DSJ Global : Job Details

A company dedicated to safeguarding and enhancing global infrastructure through innovative technology solutions provides services to prevent degradation and corrosion. Their expertise spans pipeline rehabilitation and corrosion control for sewer, drinking water, energy, and mining sectors, along with structural reinforcement for bridges, tunnels, buildings, and waterfront areas, involving both metal and concrete structures. The organization offers cost-effective methods to tackle operational, health, regulatory, and environmental challenges associated with aging or damaged infrastructure.

Position Overview

The Category Manager will report to the Senior Director of Procurement and be a key member of the Supply Chain Team. This role will involve overseeing specific categories of direct and indirect spending, amounting to an estimated annual budget of $50-$100 million. The Category Manager will collaborate with various departments to formulate purchasing strategies, identify cost-reduction opportunities, and streamline procurement and supply chain processes. This position requires being the go-to expert for assigned categories, driving negotiations, and managing supplier partnerships and regular business reviews.

The role includes approximately 20% travel, and the candidate must be based on-site.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with internal teams to develop and execute effective supply chain strategies.
• Conduct detailed spend analysis at the SKU level, create cost-saving targets, and communicate updates to senior leadership.
• Act as an authority on assigned categories, compiling and interpreting industry data, supplier information, and market trends.
• Manage the entire RFP process, from gathering customer requirements and qualifying suppliers to issuing RFPs, negotiating contracts, and formalizing agreements.
• Serve as the primary contact for suppliers, coordinate quarterly reviews, monitor contract performance, and lead initiatives to enhance supplier outcomes.
• Identify potential risks in the supply chain and devise strategies to address them proactively.

Qualifications Required

• Bachelor's degree in business, engineering, finance, or supply chain management.
• Minimum of 5 years in supply chain or procurement roles, with a proven background in category strategy development for direct or indirect purchasing.
• Comprehensive knowledge of supply chain principles, including demand forecasting, procurement practices, inventory control, and S&OP.
• Skilled negotiator with a deep understanding of contract terms and a record of successful negotiations.
• Proven experience building and nurturing relationships with suppliers.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to work independently to process and interpret large data sets using various tools.
• Excellent executive-level written and verbal communication.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and procurement tools (e.g., JDE, SAP, Coupa).
• Willingness to travel up to 20% within the country.

Preferred Skills

• Advanced degree (MBA) or certifications related to procurement (e.g., CSCP, CPIM, CPSM).
• Strong business insight and the ability to relate procurement outcomes to financial performance.
• Relevant experience in infrastructure projects, manufacturing, or subcontractor management.
• Background in chemical management.
• High proficiency with Microsoft Office, especially Excel.