Category Manager

Category Manager Location: US - NJ - Somerset Requisition ID: 19762 Overview Veeco is entering a period of accelerated growth driven by expanding demand across advanced semiconductor, AI, and high-performance computing markets. As our business scales globally, so does the complexity and strategic importance of our supply chain. We are hiring a Category Manager to shape and lead sourcing strategies across a global category. This is a high-impact leadership opportunity to build and optimize supply strategies that directly enable Veeco’s growth, innovation, and ability to deliver to customers worldwide. Responsibilities Strategic Category Leadership Own and evolve sourcing strategy for a global category aligned to your expertise, ensuring scalability to support Veeco’s growth trajectory. Develop category roadmaps aligned with business objectives, focusing on total cost of ownership, supply continuity, innovation, and risk mitigation. Market Intelligence & Strategy Development Build deep understanding of global supply markets, including cost drivers, capacity trends, emerging technologies, and supplier landscapes. Leverage insights to inform sourcing decisions and proactively position Veeco for competitive advantage. Cross-Functional Partnership Collaborate closely with Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Program teams to align sourcing strategies with product and technology roadmaps. Lead cross-functional initiatives to drive cost optimization, lead time reduction, and supplier performance improvements. Supplier Relationship Management Develop and maintain strong strategic partnerships with key suppliers globally. Evaluate, select, and onboard suppliers that align with Veeco's quality, cost, and scalability needs. Conduct business reviews and performance assessments, driving continuous improvement and accountability. Commercial Excellence Lead complex negotiations to secure best-in-class terms across pricing, delivery, contracts, and service levels. Structure agreements that balance cost competitiveness with long-term supply resilience. Risk Management & Supply Continuity Identify and mitigate supply chain risks, including single-source dependencies, geopolitical factors, and capacity constraints. Develop contingency strategies to ensure an uninterrupted supply in a dynamic global environment. Operational Impact & Continuous Improvement Drive initiatives that improve efficiency, supplier performance, and overall supply chain effectiveness. Introduce and scale best practices in category management across the organization. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or a related field required; Mechanical, Industrial, or Aerospace Engineering or International Supply Chain strongly preferred. Minimum 5 years of progressive experience with demonstrated ownership of complex categories and strategic sourcing. Experience supporting capital equipment or long-lead engineered-to-order products strongly preferred. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Strong expertise in category management, strategic sourcing, supplier selection, and commercial negotiations. Ability to translate technical requirements into effective sourcing strategies and supplier decisions. Experience working with cross-functional teams in engineering-driven or product-centric organizations. Proven track record of delivering cost savings, supplier performance improvements, and risk mitigation outcomes. Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret market data, cost structures, and financial impacts. Skilled in supplier relationship management and development of global supply bases. Excellent communication and influencing skills across all levels of the organization. Proficiency in data analysis and presentation tools (Excel, PowerPoint, etc.). Salary and Benefits The expected salary range for this position is $98,292 - $124,503, plus a bonus opportunity. If your salary requirements exceed the advertised range and you remain interested in Veeco, we encourage you to apply. Other benefits include: Medical, Dental, and Vision Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) 401(k) with Company Match Holiday, Vacation, and Sick Time Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) Commuter Benefits Life and Accident Insurance Disability Insurance Tuition Reimbursement Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Identity Theft Remediation Emergency Travel Assistance EEO Statement Veeco is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, and other legally protected characteristics. Veeco is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. #J-18808-Ljbffr Veeco Instruments Inc.