Category Manager IS and Corporate Services Procurement

About the organization

As the world's largest organization of board-certified pathologists and leading provider of laboratory accreditation and proficiency testing programs, the College of American Pathologists (CAP) serves patients, pathologists, and the public by fostering and advocating excellence in the practice of pathology and laboratory medicine worldwide.

CAP employees make a meaningful difference by partnering with colleagues, customers, and members on challenging and rewarding work. CAP provides an energetic and collaborative work environment and encourages opportunities to further develop skills—offering reimbursement for educational programs and participation in events that enhance your skills. We offer a generous compensation and benefits package, 401K, and more.

Role overview

The Procurement Category Manager is responsible for managing and overseeing spend across the Information Systems (IS) / Information Technology (IT) and Corporate Services categories, including HR services, Travel, Facilities Management, Marketing Services, and other Corporate Services, while supporting a broad base of business partners through relationship management and identifying strategic business opportunities. The role develops and implements procurement processes and strategies to ensure procurement operations run effectively, achieve organizational goals and performance KPIs, and ensure quality programs and services to members and customers. This position supports ongoing supplier management efforts, coordinates with suppliers and internal resources to drive continuous improvement, and models key behavioral and performance attributes including the Leadership Values of Partnership, Respect, Accountability, Communication, and Excellence, while embracing inclusive leadership with a focus on Belonging and Inclusion in all hiring and staff decisions.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and have full accountability for category management strategies across the corresponding spend in scope
• Develop, implement, and drive strategic sourcing initiatives to support the category management process
• Identify continuous improvement opportunities
• Maintain optimal pricing and services through review of competitive landscape, industry norms, and negotiation of contract terms
• Assist contract managers and procurement business partners to ensure contract processes meet business needs through quality assessments, process audits, and stakeholder feedback
• Seek new opportunities and analyze risk for effective procurement and expense reductions, including reducing the cost of goods and services, incorporating new technology, or improvements/efficiencies in supply base
• Negotiate with suppliers and resolve issues
• Work cross-functionally with business partners across the organization to elevate the member/customer experience
• Promote a team approach and a critical thinking environment to facilitate problem solving, empower staff, and inspire trust

Requirements

• Solid knowledge of Strategic Sourcing process
• Solid knowledge of Category Management and Category strategy development
• Excellent communication skills, ability to partner effectively and efficiently across the organization
• Strong organizational and leadership skills
• Ability to identify, navigate, and influence organizational direction
• Strategic and robust leader, analytical/critical thinker, and problem solver
• Excellent internal and external negotiation skills
• Strong business acumen with ability to explain procurement results and variations to non-procurement audiences
• In-depth hands-on knowledge of IS/IT and Corporate Services spend, including HR services, Travel, Facilities Management, Marketing Services, and other Corporate Services
• 5–10 years of combined experience in procurement, category management, and strategic sourcing, preferably across IS/IT and other indirect goods and services
• 5 years of experience managing complex indirect spend, including IS/IT and Corporate Services categories
• Ability to recognize and handle confidential information
• Resource allocation and project management
• Business acumen in judgment and decision making
• Strong customer service orientation including issue resolution and supplier relationship management skills

Technical skills

• PC-based software applications, including ERP systems
• In-depth knowledge of eSourcing tools capabilities and daily operations

Education & certifications

• Bachelor's degree required in Finance, Business, Purchasing, Operations, or related field
• CPSM certification or equivalent preferred

Additional requirements

• Travel required when necessary; expected 5%–10%
• Candidates must reside within 75 miles of Northfield, IL and meet in-office requirements

Compensation

Salary: $87,000 – $111,000