The Category Specialist will be responsible for developing and implementing a data-driven sourcing strategy, negotiating terms of engagement, and ensuring the lowest Total Cost of Ownership. This role requires a deep understanding of market trends, supplier capabilities, and effective negotiation skills. The Category Specialist will collaborate with Project Management, Sales, Estimation, and Finance to align procurement strategies with company goals and provide mentorship within the Procurement Group.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Conduct Market Research: Identify opportunities for process improvements and cost savings, assess potential disruptions or availability concerns, and prepare analysis reports to inform action plans.
Possess a general understanding of project management lifecycle in the MEP or Construction industry with a technical aptitude for aspects of the category being developed.
Develop and Implement Sourcing Strategies:
o For new and existing projects, programs, and initiatives, including materials, subcontractors, and service providers, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
Addressing cost, quality, reliability, risk, compliance with safety, health, governmental, and organizational directives, market dynamics, innovation, policies, and relationship needs.
Initiate, Draft, Negotiate, and Evaluate Agreements: Manage master and strategic agreements, contracts, pricing, and terms of engagement within budgetary limitations and defined scope of authority.
Subject Matter Expertise and Analysis- Analyze cost and supply drivers in specific categories, including:
Upstream inputs such as raw materials, byproducts, and labor forces.
Commodity markets, general market conditions, and disruptions.
Technological advancements.
Competitive landscape.
Provide Leadership and Support: Offer leadership, coaching, and project/process support to Tactical Operations to drive consistency and strategic behavior.
Collaborate on Policy Development: Assist in developing effective and efficient procurement policies and procedures.
Build and Maintain Supplier Relationships:
Develop an optimal list of providers/suppliers, present to requesting managers/groups if necessary, and assist in selections.
Manage relationships with suppliers to maximize value, maintain SLAs, and ensure adherence to quality standards.
Follow up with internal stakeholders to ensure service levels meet quality expectations and conduct regular surveys of vendor performance.
Create, execute, and maintain action plans to mitigate risk and drive positive change.
Collaborate on Delivery: Ensure smooth operations on both short- and long-term scales as needed.
Perform Special Projects and Analyses: Execute special projects and analyses with strong data analysis skills using platforms like Excel, PowerBI, and other data evaluation tools.
Prepare and Present Reports: Report on category-based activities and performance.
Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
5+ years of experience in procurement or a similar role within the MEP or construction industry preferred.
Strong negotiation and communication skills.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
Experience with procurement software and systems.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Attention to detail and accuracy.
Knowledge of market trends and industry best practices.
Ability to travel as needed.
Skills and Abilities:
Technical Proficiency
Analytical Skills
Negotiation and Contract Management
Supplier Relationship Management
Project Management
Compliance and Risk Management
Communication and Collaboration
Company Perks & Benefits:
Our mission at Lee Company is to create an environment where our employees can thrive, and we mean that. Wellness involves your relationships, finances, career, community, as well as physical health. We don’t just talk the talk, we walk the walk. Check out what benefit programs we offer to help our team and family members THRIVE with us!
We pay 100% of every employee’s long-term disability, life insurance, and fees associated with acquiring and maintaining a trade license
We offer free trade training and license exam preparation through Lee Company University (LCU), our very own NCCER accredited trade school
We have a company match program for 401(k) and health savings account contributions
You earn paid time off and paid holidays for your personal well-being
You earn rewards for your commitment to wellness and participation in initiatives through our rewards program
We offer meaningful assistance programs like Chaplain services, an on-site / mobile clinic, and an emergency assistance fund
We connect you to opportunities to make an impact through volunteering in our communities
And other benefits such as health insurance, dental, vision, and short-term disability
Lee Company is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information or testing, or family and medical leave.
