Category Manager I

Job Summary
As a Category Manager I - Operations, you will be responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies that optimize cost, quality, and supplier performance across assigned product and service categories. This role plays a critical part in aligning procurement activities with Midco's operational and financial goals by managing supplier relationships, negotiating contracts, and driving continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Partner with leadership and cross-functional teams, including engineering, finance, operations, and logistics to develop and execute procurement strategies that align with Midco's business goals.
• Identify, evaluate, and manage suppliers for assigned categories, ensuring quality, cost-effectiveness, and reliability.
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships to support performance, innovation, and long-term value creation.
• Lead or support sourcing activities such as RFPs, RFQs, and contract negotiations to secure favorable terms and mitigate risk.
• Monitor market trends, emerging technologies, and pricing dynamics to inform category strategies and drive competitive advantage.
• Partner with internal stakeholders to support and guide new product development initiatives, ensuring alignment with business goals and customer needs.
• Ensure all products and services comply with applicable local, state, and federal regulations, as well as environmental and safety standards.
• Coordinate with vendors and internal teams to oversee the full lifecycle of parts and components, from procurement through end-of-life planning, to maintain product integrity and availability.
• Drive cost savings through supplier negotiations, alternative sourcing, process improvements, and demand management.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to forecast demand, manage inventory levels, and align procurement with project timelines.
• Track and report on supplier performance using KPIs; implement corrective actions as needed to address issues related to quality, delivery, or cost.
• Administer supplier warranty programs and manage return material processes, ensuring timely resolution and compliance with contractual obligations.
• Utilize procurement systems and tools to manage contracts, purchase orders, and supplier data efficiently.
• Support capital planning and budgeting processes by providing category insights and cost projections.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and support digital transformation within the procurement function.
• Provide mentorship to team members or analysts, fostering skill development and knowledge sharing.
• Model Midco's mission, vision, values, ethos, and Leadership Success Drivers, and inspire others to do the same.
• Ensure customer privacy by adhering to Midco's privacy guidelines while actively following Midco policies and procedures.
• Maintain regular attendance as required by your position.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Note: Management reserves the right to assign or reassign functions and responsibilities to this job description at any time.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field or equivalent work experience
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

Preferred Qualifications

• Exposure to contract negotiation or supplier performance tracking.
• Experience in the telecommunications or technology industry.
• Certification in supply chain or procurement (e.g., CPIM, CSCP).
• Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, D365).

Work Environment

• The noise level in the work environment is moderate to loud.
• Required to periodically travel to other Midco locations, supplier locations, and trade and industry shows.
• May be required to work in excess of 40 hours per week and other than normal business hours, such as holidays, evenings, and weekends as business demands.

Physical Demands

• May be occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, stoop, kneel, or crouch.
• May be required to remain in a seated position for extended periods.
• Heavy keyboard/mouse usage required with repetitive movements.

Mental Demands

• Maintain accuracy and attention to detail in records, reporting, and compliance.
• Manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a structured, efficient manner.
• Identify problems, analyze causes, and implement practical solutions.
• Communicate clearly with teams, vendors, and stakeholders.
• Support collaboration and guide others through change and challenges.
• Adapt quickly to shifting priorities and operational needs.
• Make sound decisions and escalate issues when necessary.
• Stay focused and organized to ensure timely, accurate task completion