***Category Manager - Hyperscale Data Centres | Onsite in Houston, TX***

Category Manager – Hyperscale Data Centres Onsite in Houston, TX - 77095 MUST HAVE EPC and Construction experience The base salary range for this role is disclosed in this posting. The individual may also be eligible for discretionary bonuses and may participate in medical, dental, vision benefits as well as the company's 401(k) retirement plan. About the role The Construction Category Manager leads the development and execution of category strategies supporting global hyperscale data centre construction programs. The role owns end-to-end category management for construction and capital project spend, including EPC contracts, general contractors, and key trades, and supports the full project lifecycle of hyperscale developments—from pre‑FEED and design through execution and commissioning. The Manager drives sourcing excellence, mitigates commercial and execution risk, strengthens supplier and contractor relationships, and delivers measurable value across capital projects. Responsibilities The Category Manager oversees sourcing and contract management for construction services and materials supporting hyperscale data centre builds, including EPC contractors, general contractors, and specialized subcontractors across civil, structural, mechanical, and electrical scopes. Develops and executes contracting strategies, manages bid processes, evaluates contractor capabilities, and ensures alignment with project scope, schedule, and budget requirements. Drives total cost of ownership while maintaining quality, safety, and delivery performance across all phases of construction. Builds and manages strategic relationships with EPC firms, general contractors, and key hyperscale infrastructure suppliers. Leads end-to-end commercial negotiations, including complex EPC, framework, and capacity reservation agreements. Develops and executes sourcing strategies that support multi‑site, high-volume deployment models. Applies strong understanding of construction lifecycles, project controls, and capital budgeting in a hyperscale environment. Drives value through competitive sourcing, supplier innovation, and value engineering initiatives. Proactively manages supply chain risk, including long‑lead equipment constraints and global capacity limitations. Partners cross‑functionally with Engineering, Design, Construction, and Operations to influence early‑stage decisions. Leads supplier performance management and continuous improvement initiatives across global programs. Ensures compliance with safety, regulatory, and contractual requirements across all projects. Travels to project sites and supplier locations to support execution and oversight. Qualifications Significant experience in Category Management, Strategic Sourcing, or Construction Procurement. Bachelor's degree in supply chain, Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (or equivalent experience). Proven experience supporting large‑scale, mission‑critical construction projects, preferably hyperscale data centres or similar infrastructure. Strong experience with EPC contracting, commercial negotiations, and complex contract structures. Working knowledge of project management principles, construction budgeting, and cost controls. Experience sourcing long‑lead electrical and mechanical equipment (e.g., transformers, switchgear, generators, cooling systems). Desired Qualifications Experience supporting hyperscale or high‑growth, multi‑site infrastructure deployment environments. Strong leadership and influencing skills across global, cross‑functional teams. Ability to operate at both strategic and execution levels in fast‑paced, high‑demand environments. Deep understanding of global supply chain dynamics and contractor ecosystems. Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and risk mitigation capabilities. Familiarity with sourcing tools, contract management systems, and construction procurement best practices. Willingness to travel up to 20% to support global project needs. Equal Opportunity Notice Highspring LLC (d/b/a Vaco by Highspring) and its parents, affiliates, and subsidiaries ("we," "our," or "Vaco by Highspring") are committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, religion or creed, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, status as a veteran, union membership, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, political affiliation, or any other protected characteristics as required by applicable law. The company is also committed to ensuring that persons who need them are provided with reasonable accommodations; if an accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr Vaco by Highspring