Category Specialist (MRO)
Varel Energy Solutions · Houston, TX · 3 wk ago
On-siteMarketingFull-time
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Develop and implement category strategies that align with company goals and drive value across the supply chain.
- Analyze market trends, supplier performance, and spending data to ensure category competitiveness and cost-efficiency.
- Identify and onboard new suppliers while maintaining strong relationships with existing ones.
- Conduct sourcing activities for assigned categories, including RFPs, RFQs, and supplier negotiations.
- Negotiate contracts with suppliers to ensure favorable pricing, terms, and conditions, mitigating risks where possible.
- Drive continuous improvement in the sourcing process and implement best practices.
- Monitor supplier performance against key metrics such as quality, cost, delivery, and service.
- Develop and maintain strong working relationships with suppliers, ensuring open lines of communication and a reliable supply chain.
- Address any supply chain disruptions, quality issues, or service problems promptly and effectively.
- Identify cost-saving opportunities and implement initiatives to reduce procurement expenses without sacrificing quality.
- Track and report on savings achieved through strategic sourcing efforts and cost optimization initiatives.
- Work closely with other departments, including operations, engineering, and finance, to understand business needs and align procurement strategies accordingly.
- Serve as the category expert, advising internal stakeholders on market conditions, supplier capabilities, and category trends.
- Ensure all procurement activities are compliant with company policies, procedures, and relevant legal regulations.
- Assess and mitigate risks related to supplier performance, delivery, and quality issues.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business, engineering, or a related field.
- 3+ years of experience in procurement, supply chain, or category management, ideally within a manufacturing or industrial environment.
- Experience in the oil & gas, mining, or manufacturing sectors.
- Certification in procurement (e.g., CPSM, CIPS, or equivalent).
- Global procurement/supply chain experience specifically, U.S.A, India, Asia, and Middle East for MRO.
- Proficiency in procurement software and Microsoft Office applications (SAP, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally and build strong relationships.
- Knowledge of industry trends, market conditions, and regulatory requirements related to the assigned categories.
Qualifications
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Experience with procurement software and tools.
- Strong negotiation and relationship-building skills.
Skills
- Category Management
- Strategic Sourcing
- Supplier Management
- Cost Management & Savings
- Compliance & Risk Management
Benefits
- Attractive benefits package.
- Competitive pay.
- Exciting and fast-paced work environment.
- Opportunities for career growth and development.
Pay
- Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
Schedule
- Full-time position.