Category Manager

Job Description:Summary: The Category Manager – Bearings is responsible for developing and executing the category strategy to drive revenue growth, margin expansion, and working capital optimization within the Bearings portfolio. This role owns supplier relationships, inventory performance, and cross-functional alignment across sales, operations, and finance.The ideal candidate will combine strong commercial acumen with technical product knowledge of bearings (ball, roller, mounted units, specialty bearings), and a deep understanding of distribution dynamics in industrial and MRO markets.Essential Duties, Responsibilities, and Accountabilities(Include the following; however, other duties may apply.)Category Strategy & Financial PerformanceDevelop and execute a 1–3-year category strategy aligned with company growth objectivesDrive revenue, gross margin, and inventory performance (turns, GM, DOS)Identify white space opportunities, line expansions, and rationalization initiativesLead cost savings initiatives, rebate optimization, and margin improvement programsBuild and maintain category scorecards and KPIsSupplier ManagementServe as primary commercial contact for strategic bearing suppliers (e.g., SKF, Timken, NTN, NSK, Schaffler, RBC, etc.)Negotiate pricing, rebates, freight terms, payment terms, and inventory programsLead Joint Business Planning (JBP) with key suppliersMonitor supplier performance (OTIF, lead times, quality, cost changes)Manage supply risk and dual-source strategies where appropriateInventory & Demand PlanningCollaborate with SIOP/Demand Planning to optimize stocking strategy and safety stock levelsManage lifecycle (NPI, phase-in/phase-out, obsolescence mitigation)Improve forecast accuracy and reduce excess/slow-moving inventoryAlign stocking strategies with customer segment needsPricing & Market IntelligenceCollaborate with Pricing and Commercial team to develop competitive pricing strategies by segment and channelMonitor market trends including steel costs, import pressures, tariff exposure, and competitive activityPartner with Sales to support large bids, project pricing, and contract negotiationsCross Functional LeadershipPartner with Sales to drive category growth initiatives and trainingSupport Marketing on promotions, campaigns, and technical positioningCoordinate with Operations to address capacity, lead times, and logistics constraintsPresent category performance updates to executive leadershipQualifications: To perform this job satisfactorily, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Education and/or Experience:Bachelor's Degree required; MBA or CPM/CPIM certification preferred5+ years of experience in category management, product management, or strategic sourcingExperience within industrial distribution is strongly preferredBearings, or power transmission product knowledge, highly desirableProven success negotiating with global manufacturers.Technical & Commercial Skills:Strong financial acumen (margin analysis, rebate modeling)Proficient in ERP/MRP systems and advanced ExcelUnderstanding of industrial bearing applications (motors pumps, conveyors, gearboxes, etc)Experience managing vendor agreements and contractsLeadership & Competencies:Strategic thinker with strong analytical capabilityEffective negotiator with executive presenceAbility to influence cross-functional teams without direct authorityStrong communication and presentation skillsResults-driven with high ownership mentalityKey Performance Indicators (KPIs):Supplier rebate attainmentInventory turns & working capital reductionOn-time supplier performanceCost savings deliveredNew product / line expansion impactWork Environment:HybridTravel up to 25% for supplier visits, trade shows, and customer meetingsThis job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all requirements and responsibilities and as such, is subject to change without notice based on the needs of the business and/or department.EIS Legacy is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. #J-18808-Ljbffr