Category Manager

Locations: Houston (8718) Business Units: Central Job Classification: Exempt Summary The Senior Category Manager is a strategic leadership role responsible for overseeing high-value and complex spend categories, developing long-term sourcing strategies, and leading enterprise-wide initiatives that drive cost optimization, supply continuity, and innovation. This role serves as a key advisor to senior leadership and plays a critical role in shaping procurement strategies that support manufacturing excellence and business growth. Key Responsibilities Strategic Category Leadership Develop and execute multi-year category strategies aligned with corporate, operational, and manufacturing objectives Lead strategic planning processes, including demand forecasting, market intelligence, and risk assessment Identify opportunities for innovation, supplier collaboration, and competitive advantage Advanced Sourcing & Negotiation Lead complex, high-impact sourcing initiatives and negotiations with global suppliers Establish and execute negotiation strategies that deliver best-in-class commercial outcomes Oversee contract development, ensuring alignment with legal, financial, and operational requirements Supplier Relationship & Performance Management Build executive-level partnerships with strategic suppliers to drive performance, innovation, and long-term value Implement supplier segmentation models and governance frameworks Lead supplier business reviews and continuous improvement initiatives Cost Leadership & Value Engineering Drive significant cost savings and value creation through advanced analytics, should-cost modeling, and total cost of ownership (TCO) methodologies Champion value engineering and demand management initiatives across manufacturing operations Monitor commodity markets and economic trends to proactively manage cost and risk Cross-Functional Influence Partner with senior leaders in operations, engineering, R&D, and finance to align category strategies with business priorities Lead procurement involvement in new product development (NPD) and capital projects Act as a trusted advisor to stakeholders on sourcing decisions and supplier strategies Risk Management & Compliance Identify, assess, and mitigate supply chain risks (e.g., geopolitical, capacity, single-source dependencies) Ensure adherence to company policies, regulatory requirements, and sustainability goals Lead business continuity and contingency planning efforts Team Leadership & Development Mentor and develop Category Managers and procurement professionals Lead cross-functional and global project teams Drive a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement Basic Qualifications Advanced strategic thinking and business acumen Expert negotiation and contract management skills Deep knowledge of manufacturing supply chains and operations Strong financial and analytical expertise (cost modeling, TCO, market analysis) Executive-level communication and stakeholder management Leadership and team development capabilities Ability to influence across a global, matrixed organization Strong risk management and decision-making skills Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Annual cost savings and value creation Supplier performance (quality, delivery, innovation) Work Environment Fast-paced manufacturing environment High level of cross-functional interaction Occasional interaction with suppliers and plant sites Travel required (15%-20%) for supplier engagement and site visits Preferred Qualifications Experience with global sourcing and international supplier networks Proficiency with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and advanced procurement tools Certification such as CPSM, CIPS, or Six Sigma (Black Belt preferred) Experience in digital procurement transformation initiatives Education and Experience Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field MBA or advanced degree strongly preferred 8–15+ years of progressive experience in procurement, category management, or strategic sourcing in a manufacturing environment Proven experience managing large, complex spend categories (e.g., direct materials, capital equipment, logistics, raw materials) Demonstrated success delivering significant cost savings and strategic value initiatives Why Join Us Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage. Basic life insurance and short-term disability coverage provided by employer. Supplemental life insurance and long-term disability coverage options available. 401K with employer contribution. Personal, Vacation, and Holiday paid time off for all full-time employees. Our company is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or marital status in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr