At CAIRE, Inc., we are transforming our procurement department and building out a proactive and strategic category management function. We are currently seeking an experienced Category Manager with a strategic mindset, strong supplier management skills, and exceptional negotiation abilities.
JOB SUMMARY:
As a Category Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing strategic procurement activities for the products necessary to build our medical device instruments. You will develop in-depth knowledge of markets and suppliers while working with internal and external stakeholders to maximize value and mitigate risk.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
To perform this job effectively, the successful candidate is expected to demonstrate ownership and take accountability for tasks including but not limited to the following:
Develop market knowledge through identifying market leaders, understanding value chains, supply, and demand drivers, monitoring supply trends and shifts in technology to identify areas of opportunity and risk.
Represent Procurement in cross-functional meetings and projects as a trusted advisor and subject matter expert.
Facilitate cross functional strategic sourcing and supplier selection; work closely with external departments to align and ensure the selection meets the needs of the business.
Engage in contract negotiations, supply agreement development, contract execution and management.
Practice supplier relationship management principles for key suppliers; conduct internal and supplier-facing business reviews to monitor suppliers spend and performance to drive improvement.
Analyze data or insights to determine industry and consumer trends.
Devise long-term development strategies for product categories and develop exit strategies for unsuccessful products.
Foster trusting relationships with vendors to achieve better pricing and quality of services.
Place appropriate orders to ensure product availability that meets demands.
Determine the positioning of a product category to maximize visibility.
Liaise with Marketing team to determine competitive pricing and promotional activities of a product category.
Collaborate with buyers and merchandisers to expand product categories.
Develop forecasts for product demand to ensure the sustainability of inventory.
Assume responsibility of budget development and revenue for each category.
Other responsibilities as assigned.
KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:
Proven experience as category manager or similar role.
Strong business analytical skills and comfort with identifying data needs and sources.
Experience in supply negotiations and post award management.
Excellent facilitation and organizational skills with the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and deliver complex objectives under stringent timelines.
Command of data analysis and forecasting methods.
Ability to think critically and demonstrate troubleshooting and problem-solving skills - resourceful and hands-on.
Stature to be credible with all stakeholders characterized by flexibility and emotional maturity.
A results/solutions orientation supported by strong project and planning management skills, with a high emphasis on quality.
Self-starter, driven to deliver quality results on time and in a highly ethical and professional manner.
Good interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with all levels of staff, and with the public.
Computer literate and proficient with all MS Office.
JOB QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering.
5+ years' relevant experience in procurement function.
This job description reflects management's assignment of essential functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. This job description also does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of job change.