Contract Manufacturing Category Manager I (Onsite)

Your Impact You will be accountable for leading assigned category(s) with the highest impact on Axon's supply base and spend categories. This requires a broad market understanding and engagement with internal and external stakeholders at the highest levels. You will ensure assigned suppliers meet and maintain requirements for quality, on‑time delivery, and continuous improvement while optimizing cost, inventory, and terms. Enhanced understanding of emerging markets and technologies is required. What You'll Do Location: Onsite at our Scottsdale, AZ office 3‑5 days a week, and on the road 20% of time Reports to: Director, Strategic Sourcing Direct Reports: Yes Manage supplier performance through formal business reviews and ongoing engagement to meet Axon’s requirements for quality, delivery, cost, innovation, and continuous improvement Act as the subject matter expert for defined commodities, assessing market dynamics and supplier risk while driving strategies to improve competitiveness and supply continuity Partner with demand planning to communicate forecasts and align supplier capacity with short‑ and long‑term business needs Lead spend management initiatives to optimize supplier base, cost, inventory, and payment terms Manage supplier inventory levels through advanced replenishment strategies and negotiation of lead times and MOQs Negotiate contracts and supplier agreements Drive continuous improvement and supplier performance initiatives Lead commodity strategy development and execution Support NPI processes, translating product requirements into supply strategies Partner cross‑functionally with Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, Sales Ops, and Product teams to align supplier performance with business goals Serve as the primary escalation point for supplier‑related issues What You Bring Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or a related field 7+ years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, or commodity/category management Strong expertise in electronics manufacturing and the global EMS/CM landscape (e.g., Jabil, Plexus, Sanmina), including PCBA, system integration, NPI, and supply chain constraints Proven ability to develop and execute category strategies that drive cost, quality, and risk outcomes Advanced negotiation skills (should‑costing, LTAs, VAVE, pricing models) and experience managing complex global supplier agreements Strong supplier performance management experience (KPIs, QBRs, scorecards, continuous improvement) with demonstrated accountability across cost, quality, and delivery Solid understanding of cost drivers and landed cost optimization, with experience in manufacturing transfers, ramp‑up, and dual‑sourcing strategies Experience identifying and mitigating supply chain risks, including geopolitical and capacity challenges, with the ability to build multi‑region sourcing strategies Awareness of key industry trends (reshoring, China+1 strategies, component shortages, lifecycle management) Strong analytical mindset with the ability to benchmark suppliers, model costs, challenge assumptions, and drive data‑based decisions Ability to influence cross‑functionally (Engineering, Finance, Quality, Operations) and communicate effectively at all levels, including executive stakeholders Demonstrated leadership capability with experience developing teams and building strong supplier relationships Preferred Qualifications Strong communication and negotiation skills and proven ability to work within a team structure as an active participant and drive results through direct and indirect influence/collaboration Ability to successfully function in a fast‑paced ambiguous environment Demonstrated capability of advancing further within the organization through a track record of increasing responsibility and quantifiable results APICS, ISM, PMP, Six Sigma certifications desired Masters of Business Administration Benefits that Benefit You Competitive salary and 401(k) with employer match Discretionary paid time off Paid parental leave for all Medical, Dental, Vision plans Fitness programs Emotional & Mental Wellness support Learning & Development programs Snack availability in offices The above job description is not intended as, nor should it be construed as, exhaustive of all duties, responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with this job. The job description may change or be supplemented at any time in accordance with business needs and conditions. Some roles may also require legal eligibility to work in a firearms environment. We are an equal‑opportunity employer that promotes justice, advances equity, values diversity and fosters inclusion. We're committed to hiring the best talent regardless of race, creed, color, ancestry, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations and ordinances, and empowering all of our employees so they can do their best work. If you have a disability or special need that requires assistance or accommodation during the application or recruiting process, please email View email address on click.appcast.io. This email address is for accommodation purposes only. 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