Senior Category Manager - Procurement

About the role

The organization operates across North America, including Mexico, the US, and Canada, focusing on procurement activities supporting its operations. It addresses the challenges of managing supply chains and sourcing for various categories such as Plastic Corrugated, Logistics, Real Estate, and outsourced production. By centralizing and streamlining procurement processes, this team aims to ensure efficient and cost-effective sourcing aligned with overall business objectives.

The SENIOR CATEGORY MANAGER - PROCUREMENT is responsible for leading procurement strategy and execution across multiple operational regions. This role drives sourcing initiatives, develops category strategies, negotiates contracts, and manages supplier relationships to optimize cost savings and operational efficiency. The position directly impacts the effectiveness of procurement operations and supports the organization's ability to meet business needs through strategic supplier management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement category strategies aligned with procurement goals and business objectives.
• Lead strategic sourcing including market analysis, RFQ processes, supplier selection, and contract negotiation.
• Identify cost-saving and process improvement opportunities across procurement operations.
• Collaborate with finance, operations, legal, and other departments to meet procurement requirements.
• Manage supplier relationships to ensure performance meets contractual terms and mitigate supply chain risks.
• Conduct market research to stay informed of industry trends and supplier capabilities.
• Ensure compliance with corporate policies and maintain ethical standards in procurement activities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or related field; Master’s or MBA preferred.
• 5-7 years of experience in procurement or category management.
• Strong skills in negotiation, analysis, and problem solving.
• Knowledge of procurement best practices, sourcing strategies, supplier management, and contract negotiation.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration and supplier relationship building.
• Strong project management skills capable of handling multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Skills

• Experience identifying and qualifying new suppliers.
• Knowledge of regulations and compliance requirements in Mexico, the US, and Canada.
• Familiarity with procurement software such as SAGE and Amtech.