Category Manager

Job Description

Job Description

We have an exciting opportunity to join the Inception Fertility team! The Category Manager position is accountable for delivering procurement value to all Inception network sites. This position procures equipment, services, and supplies to meet department demands in a timely, accurate, and efficient manner. The Category Manager position performs complex procurement functions in compliance with policies and procedures and maintains a high level of autonomy and communication with customers regarding order status, backorders, and sourcing information.

• Responsible for managing the procurement of equipment (both minor and capital), supplies, and services to meet department demands in a timely, accurate, and efficient manner. Provide support, guidance, reporting and solutions for procurement activities, establish and foster relationships across locations to meet customer needs, communicate effectively with internal customers, vendors, peers and leadership on network related topics and issues.
• Continuously review open purchase orders, identify potential sourcing solutions and alternatives, and expedite and liaise with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of equipment and supplies.
• Lead the research and analysis of data to determine cost saving opportunities through vendor consolidation, contract negotiations, and scope of work to drive process, quality, service, and financial improvements. Independently negotiate with vendors to obtain agreement on price, quality, timeliness, and other factors. Manage contract lifecycle (e.g. renewals, compliance reviews, amendments, scope expansions, etc.).
• Manage relationships with key vendors, evaluate vendor performance based on knowledge of prices, delivery, and information received from internal customers, and lead business reviews with vendors to ensure both parties meet obligations under the terms of agreement, including performance standards and continuous improvement goals.
• Manage preparation, performance, and execution of procurement processes and projects. Collaborate with cross-functional teams and leaders to identify and implement procurement initiatives which support network goals and long-term objectives. Provide technical and/or operational support to projects and programs as required.
• Responsible for the end-to-end procure-to-pay cycle and facilitate resolution with all parties involved to ensure consistency in purchase orders, inventory management, order receipts, invoices, and great customer service.
• Monitor procurement platform to ensure efficiency and data integrity. Educate and train users on platform to ensure platform is utilized according to network policies and procedures.
• Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively, prioritizes department daily tasks, and use resources effectively and efficiently.
• Maintain core competency in systems and applications, adapting when new processes, tools and systems are implemented, and manages competing demands in a productive manner to ensure timely and accurate issuance of deliverables.
• Facilitate teamwork by coordinating department needs and responding positively to requests for assistance, promote a positive work environment, and contribute to a dynamic, team-focused unit that actively helps one another to achieve optimal department results.
• Ability to travel up to 25% of the time, to the clinics within the Inception network, as well as required meetings and conferences. 
• Other duties as assigned.

Education and/or Experience:

• High school degree or equivalent required.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred or 4 years of procurement experience, or combination of education and experience.
• Strong understanding of procurement processes, vendor management, and contract administration, preferably within a multi-site operation.
• Experience working in a healthcare setting strongly preferred

Why You'll Love Working Here – Our Amazing Benefits:

Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision plans for our full-time employees, along with complimentary basic life insurance, Employee Assistance Program, and long-term disability insurance. FREE employee-only healthcare coverage option is also available.

Family Building Support: Take advantage of our comprehensive fertility benefits, adoption assistance, and surrogacy support to help grow your family.

Paid Parental Leave: Generous maternity, paternity, and partner leave so you can focus on what matters most.

Plenty of Paid Time Off: Start with 18 days of PTO annually and enjoy 11 paid holidays, including one floating holiday to use as you choose!

Retirement Ready: Invest in your future with our 401(k) plan, featuring a competitive company match and full vesting after just 2 years.

Lifestyle Spending Account: Access a company-funded account to reimburse expenses that boost your physical, financial, and emotional well-being.

Health Savings Account (HSA): If eligible, enjoy regular employer contributions to your HSA with every paycheck.

Rewards for Connections: Earn extra money with our Employee Referral Program — your network is invaluable!

Growth Opportunities: We support your career with continuing education reimbursement and dedicated time off for professional development.

Emotional & Work-Life Support: Through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with SupportLinc, you'll have access to emotional well-being and work-life resources whenever you need them.

Extra Peace of Mind: Explore additional coverage options including Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, and Pet Insurance to suit your needs.