Sr Category Manager

Location: Somerset, NJ (Hybrid)

About the role

A highly reputable manufacturing company is seeking a Senior Commodity Manager to own and execute global category strategies. This role involves end-to-end supplier strategy, including evaluation, selection, development, consolidation, or exit of suppliers to optimize the global supply base. The position requires strategic guidance to internal stakeholders, driving supplier performance across cost, quality, delivery, and innovation, and proactively mitigating supply chain risks.

Responsibilities

• Own and execute the sourcing strategy for a specific category or sub-category, ensuring alignment with overall business and supply chain objectives
• Manage the full lifecycle of suppliers, including selection, onboarding, and ongoing performance management
• Lead negotiations for pricing, commercial terms, and supplier agreements to achieve cost savings and favorable conditions
• Drive cost savings and cost optimization initiatives, taking direct ownership of cost reduction targets and outcomes
• Partner closely with engineering and operations teams to support sourcing decisions and evaluate technical requirements
• Monitor and manage supplier performance using scorecards, KPIs, and regular business reviews
• Actively manage supplier relationships to ensure consistent performance and accountability
• Identify and mitigate supply chain risks such as capacity constraints, single-source exposure, and continuity risks
• Analyze data, cost drivers, and total cost of ownership (TCO) to inform sourcing strategies
• Execute sourcing initiatives end-to-end, ensuring timely and effective delivery of results
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to maintain alignment on priorities and timelines
• Contribute to continuous improvement of sourcing processes and tools

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred
• 12+ years of Supply Chain experience
• 5+ years owning a category
• Industry experience required
• Proven experience in strategic sourcing (not transactional buying)
• Demonstrated ability to build and execute long-term category strategies
• Strong supplier management and negotiation skills

Pay

$140,000 - $160,000 per year

Benefits

• Great benefits package
• Work-life balance
• Stability and clear opportunities for growth