Category Leader, Direct Materials

Specific Responsibilities

• Spearhead and execute impactful sourcing strategies to boost supplier performance, deliver tangible cost savings, and proactively mitigate risk.
• Share actionable insights with stakeholders for strategic alignment and business growth.
• Act as a trusted subject matter expert, driving sourcing excellence across the organization.
• Cultivate strategic partnerships with suppliers through proactive engagement and on-site collaboration.
• Leverage metrics and reviews to drive continuous improvement and measurable supplier outcomes.
• Identify and onboard high-performing suppliers to maintain a competitive, dynamic supply base.
• Lead cost optimization and resourcing projects, accelerating Kohler’s industry leadership.
• Manage complex project scopes by collaborating across multifunctional teams for seamless delivery.
• Oversee timelines to ensure success while fostering cross-functional teamwork and accountability.
• Harness tools like SAP and Power BI to empower data-driven sourcing decisions and operational efficiency.
• Demonstrate expertise in contract management and negotiation to secure best-in-class results.
• Proactively refine templates to support scalable growth.
• Partner with legal teams and lead RFx processes to ensure robust agreements.

Technical

• Analyzing data to uncover trends and generate actionable business intelligence.
• Performing cost analysis, price modeling, and forecasting using comprehensive market research.

Skills/Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Finance, Engineering, Operations.
• 6+ years as a purchasing professional or related fields.
• Experience in creating sourcing strategies, contract negotiations, cost savings, problem solving and complex project execution.
• Ability to travel 15% of the time to suppliers and other Kohler locations.