The Category Manager is a highly visible position within the business and operations. The role is • responsible for building short and long-term category strategy to ensure operational optimization. This role is expected to establish cross-functional networks and foster collaboration with suppliers, wider supply chain organization, engineering, quality, and product management. The Category Manager owns the vendor performance data and reports metrics to leadership and the materials teams.
This position is part of the Corporate Supply Chain team, which operates out of Mueller's corporate office in Atlanta, Georgia. The ideal candidate will be agreeable to a hybrid working arrangement, where work is conducted in the corporate office, plant locations and remotely, as needed to support the needs of the business. This position requires 10-20% travel at any given time.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and implement category strategy which optimizes affordability, availability, agility, and innovation. Leverage understanding of similar industry, sourcing concepts, and lean tools to ensure parts delivered on time at best cost and quality.
Manage external relationship with suppliers and assume responsibility for all internal activities and decisions associated with category and suppliers, including contract negotiation, new product development, approved vendor list, RFQ, re-sourcing, dual qualification, pricing changes, quality, and capacity.
Collaborate across all sites, Product Management and Engineering to align on long-term strategy, technology roadmap, and risk mitigation
Develop and maintain expert knowledge of respective global supply markets, competitors, and product innovations
Responsible for margin improvement via VAVE, negotiation, design for manufacturing with NPD, and optimization with manufacturing operations.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree
5+ years' experience in sourcing environment and familiarity with industrial operations
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in supply chain, engineering, finance, or business
MBA or professional certifications (CPM, CPSM, CIRM, CPIM)
Proficient in Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook
Experience with strategic sourcing and lean tools
Digital dexterity and ability to leverage data
Strong knowledge of supply chain strategy (development and execution) and category specific experience
Independently driven problem solver with appetite to address complex challenges in a fast-moving environment
Proven track record of successful leadership, negotiation, and strategic communication
Strong business acumen and experience collaborating across various levels within a diverse, global organization
Ability to summarize ideas and present concisely to upper management and team members, to build support on category strategy, and implement in a matrix environment
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other category protected by law.
