Category Manager

Job Title: Category Manager
Location-Type: Hybrid In Northbrook IL ( 3 days/week onsite)
Start Date Is: ASAP
Duration: 4 month contract-to-hire
Rate:

Reporting to Senior Manager – Global Category Management, this role will lead the development and execution of category plans for the enterprise IT and Strategic Support functions (HR, Marketing, Legal and Finance) along with supporting the Contingent Workforce category. The manager of this area will be responsible for implementing a range of initiatives to support the client and their and Global Sourcing objectives.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop Category Plans and sourcing strategies containing a portfolio of key initiatives
• Lead or support category planning and execution
• Lead key sourcing initiatives, achieving best value within acceptable risk.
• Contribute to the development of the annual pipeline of sourcing initiatives
• Rationalize the number of suppliers and reduce fragmentation in the spend base to simplify the supplier landscape and drive commercial efficiency
• Manage key suppliers to ensure that all contractual obligations are met, initiatives are performing against business case and that issues and disputes are resolved in a timely manner
• Build and enhance relationships with strategic suppliers to deliver high levels of service while maintaining best-in-class commercial terms and conditions
• Performs other duties as directed.

HIRE-IN

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Information Technology, Supply Management, or related field
• CPM/CPSM certification a plus
• 5 years of experience in developing and executing category strategies in marketing, HR, legal and finance categories (SOWs and MSAs)
• Working knowledge of contract terms and conditions (T&M, Fixed fees, sourcing models for SOW and software licensing order forms) and MSA
• Demonstrated experience resolving process and business problems with clarity of thought
• Adaptable to change, navigate through times of uncertainty and pivot as needed, particularly in fast-paced environments.'
• Proven experience in Sourcing/Procurement, with strong knowledge of MSAs, SOWs, and contracting
• Project management experience and able to juggle multiple projects at different phases of the process.
• Experience with vendor management and working with Marketing agencies, software licensing agreements.
• Familiarity working with multiple stakeholders and complex workflows
• Prior Category experience can include Professional Services, contingent workforce, marketing, HR, legal and finance (WPK: it's not a prerequisite that they "should” have all these category experiences; if so, we'll never find a candidate that will fit)]
• Effective written and oral communication with internal business stakeholders and suppliers
• Bachelors Degree