Sr. Category Manager – Services - Remote

About the role

Symetra is seeking an experienced Sr. Category Manager – Services to lead sourcing strategy, vendor partnerships, and cost optimization across key indirect and services categories.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic sourcing initiatives (RFI/RFP/RFx), negotiations, and contract execution
• Develop and implement category strategies aligned to business goals and savings targets
• Analyze spend, market trends, and risk to inform sourcing decisions
• Negotiate pricing, terms, SLAs, and key performance indicators to optimize supplier performance
• Manage contracts and ensure compliance with company policies
• Build strong relationships with internal partners and suppliers
• Lead cross-functional teams to deliver sourcing and cost improvement initiatives
• Maintain supplier performance and resolve issues to ensure high-quality service
• Find opportunities to streamline processes and improve efficiency

Requirements

• A high school diploma or equivalent required
• A bachelor’s degree preferred
• 8+ years of experience in sourcing, procurement, or vendor management
• Relevant certifications (CPM, CSMP, CSM, PMP, Six Sigma) preferred
• Strong negotiator with excellent analytical, communication, and project management skills
• Strategic, collaborative, and effective in fast-paced, complex environments
• Passionate about accuracy, building strong connections, and comfortable influencing others
• Ability to travel periodically

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; bachelor’s degree preferred
• 8+ years of experience in sourcing, procurement, or vendor management
• Relevant certifications (CPM, CSMP, CSM, PMP, Six Sigma) preferred
• Strong negotiator with excellent analytical, communication, and project management skills
• Strategic, collaborative, and effective in fast-paced, complex environments
• Passionate about accuracy, building strong connections, and comfortable influencing others
• Ability to travel periodically

Skills

• Strategic thinking
• Vendor management
• Cost optimization
• Supplier negotiation
• Project management
• Collaboration
• Communication
• Analysis
• Problem-solving

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Flexible full-time or hybrid telecommuting arrangements
• 401(k) plan with immediate vesting and company matching up to 6%
• Paid time off including vacation and sick time, flex days, and ten paid holidays
• Opportunities to give back to the community and double your impact through company matching

Pay

$96,700 – $161,200 plus eligibility for annual bonus program

Schedule

Remote-first position