Category Manager I

Job Description

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Category Manager I

Posting Start Date:


8/7/26

Job Location (Short):


Peoria, Illinois, USA, 61639

Requisition ID:


36603

Onsite or Remote:


Onsite Position

Join Komatsu and Be Part of Something Big!

Job Overview

Conduct sourcing cost reduction activities with a focus on fabrication. Identify and qualify suppliers capable of providing products and services to meet OE and Aftermarket requirements in accordance with SLQDC principals; ensuring productivity, continuous improvement, and negotiated lowest total overall cost. Manage global sourcing activities.

Key Job Responsibilities

• Develop specific category strategies for single or multiple categories of spend. i.e. Steel, Castings, Forgings, Machining, Hydraulic, Mechanical, Electronics, etc.
• Standardize Contracts and Master Purchase Agreements for category purchases as directed by the business strategies and corporate goals.
• Monitor supply markets and commodity trending for competitive changes and prepare cost models for respective category.
• Primary owner of Supplier Relationship Management for strategic supply base within given category.
• Be a leader and work independently to establish strategy timeline, managing deliverables, and ability to appropriately identify and escalate issues when needed
• Perform high-level global category analysis (Full spend and segment spend into sub-category if needed).
• Sourcing Strategy & Negotiation - Develop and implement the commodity sourcing strategy through analysis of global markets, raw materials trends, technology, value chain analysis, and long-term sourcing plans. Prepare for and lead supplier negotiations. Initiate and manage RFI's, RFP's, and RFQ's.
• Owner of master data.
• Perform industry research to identify qualified supplier candidates to meet Komatsu needs. Benchmark best in class suppliers.
• Perform "Should Cost Analysis" cost models for each category group to fully understand cost make-up and drive optimal cost decisions.
• Supplier Relationships - Understand type of supplier relationship required, ongoing oversight of supplier relationships with responsibilities for all commercial aspects including negotiations, contracts, partnerships, continuous improvements, etc.
• Support cost reduction goals established by top management and develop and drive actions to meet the short term and long-term cost reduction goals.
• Evaluate various supplier performance metrics including related value elements, performance trends and risk analysis to ensure category strategy is working and corrective action taken when needed.
• Ongoing evaluation of the supply base in the areas of market research, product quality, competitive pricing, capability, and capacity. Perform SWAT and supplier risk analysis.
• May be required to perform other related duties as required or assigned.

Qualifications/Requirements

• Ideal candidates will possess a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering. Other Degrees with a combination of relevant experience on a focused group of commodities may be considered.
• CPIM, CSCP or CPM Certification a plus
• 5+ years of relevant working experience
• Experience working in an ERP environment (SAP a plus)
• Systems skills: SAP, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Ariba
• The position requires a thorough knowledge of commodities assigned to the Category Manager under various conditions and cultures on a global basis. The position must balance the needs of Komatsu regional and global business development strategies to optimize market conditions and business results.
• Proprietary information including technical specifications, drawings, etc.
• Management and support of $1.6 Billion in overall spend.
• Procurement department typically responsible for cost reduction activities of ~1% of annual receipts.
• Work closely with regional purchasing, aftermarket, NPD, and sales/marketing teams to monitor and drive compliance to the strategic category strategies.
• Conflicting Supplier/ Komatsu concerns and interests. Must be communicated, understood and resolved by the individual for the process to be successful.
• Knowledge and understanding of business cultural and financial differences in numerous countries.
• Develop relationships and cost model strategies with key suppliers to mitigate effects of volatile materials market.
• Maintaining healthy supplier relationships in difficult market conditions and resolving conflicts.

Additional Information

Risk management, project management and presentation skills a plus.

Hiring Range

At Komatsu, your base pay is one part of your total compensation package. This role pays $78,500 - $98,100. The actual offer will consider a wide range of factors, including experience and location.

Company Benefits

Komatsu provides an extensive and robust employee benefits package that is designed to enhance the well-being of our employees and family members. We embrace a positive and empowering employee experience with a culture that prides itself on a diverse and inclusive environment.

• Health benefits: Medical, dental, vision, HSA, wellness programs, etc.
• 401k and/or employee savings programs
• Employee time off (vacation and designated holidays)
• Employee and family assistance programs
• Disability benefits
• Life insurance
• Employee learning and development programs

Diversity & Inclusion Commitment

At Komatsu, we come from diverse backgrounds, with unique perspectives, experiences and contributions. We believe that our people are part of our shared purpose. Connected by our core values of ambition, perseverance, collaboration and authenticity, we are committed to continually advancing in our support of diversity and inclusion. United, we are on a journey towards a sustainable future that creates value together.

Company Information

Komatsu develops and supplies technologies, equipment and services for the construction, mining, forklift, industrial and forestry markets. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Komatsu employs more than 64,000 people worldwide, operating in more than 140 countries. For more than a century, the company has been creating value for its customers through manufacturing and technology innovation, partnering with others to empower a sustainable future where people, business and the planet thrive together. Since the company's founding in 1921, Komatsu has been committed to supporting individuals and communities through job training, skills development and giving back. As a Komatsu employee, you will be encouraged to grow alongside our global company, contributing to a more sustainable future for all. If you are looking for a company that values your talent and potential, join Komatsu to be a part of something big and help advance modern society. Learn more at

EEO Statement

Komatsu is an Equal Opportunity Workplace and an 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, or protected veteran status.

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