Category Manager

About the role

Job Description: The Category Manager II will be responsible for providing category management expertise for a group of assigned categories by incorporating best practice strategic sourcing principles. Lead and manage cross-functional teams to ensure optimal value in the supply chain for Wheels and its clients. Requires experience in category management techniques, strategic supplier relationship management, RFx processes, contracting processes, and sourcing strategies. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Responsible for leading the strategic sourcing activities for assigned categories to include market analysis, commercial lever identification, strategy development, RFX process, bid evaluation, supplier selection, contract, price & terms negotiations, performance evaluation, etc. Responsible for organizing and leading cross-functional Category Teams as part of category strategy development, to optimize value, including cost savings, cost avoidance, rebate enhancements, and KPI monitoring Responsible for developing in-depth operational knowledge of assigned category areas to ensure an understanding of the supply market dynamics and how they relate to the requirements of Wheels and its clients Lead Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) activities for assigned categories. Evaluate new and existing strategic suppliers, fostering relationships to create innovative and collaborative partnerships that achieve competitive advantage Responsible for achieving annual value objectives Support the annual planning process by developing category forecasts for spend, volumes and rebates. Create and/or improve policies and processes to support improved Procurement and supplier relations. Other duties are assigned to ensure overall departmental efficiency Other Duties Maintain a solid understanding of the overall business and operational needs. Support implementation of departmental sourcing initiatives. Assist in the implementation of Procurement software needs, including ERP. Other duties and responsibilities as assigned. LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES This position's leadership responsibilities involve demonstrating ethics and integrity, developing adaptability, displaying drive and purpose and exhibiting leadership stature COMPETENCIES - SKILLS Entrepreneurial attitude with the ability to take initiative and work independently Demonstrated ability building relationships and strategic alliances that motivate internal teams and suppliers to meet strategic objectives Proficient in all phases of procurement and possess analytical ability to evaluate strategic options and the impact on the business Strong analytical skills to develop complex category strategies, evaluate competing offers, and determine best value Detail oriented, with ability to see the big picture EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE Bachelor's degree in Business/Finance/Accounting preferred CPM, CPSM, CPSC certification a plus 4-6 years of Category Management experience in a Procurement role Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) experience Experience reading and understanding supply and service contracts Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, PowerBI) Ability to work independently, creatively, and efficiently in a dynamic environment Strong listening, communication (verbal, written), planning and organizational skills Mastery of Strategic Sourcing concepts Strong negotiation techniques, ability to interface/present with all levels of management, ability to understand financial benefits CORE VALUES At Wheels, we believe in fostering a culture that is built on our Core Values and Guiding Principles. We cultivate a culture of excellence and innovation by upholding these values, driving our collective success and growth. Integrity - Always act with integrity and honesty. One Team - Treat others with dignity and respect; act as a cohesive, inclusive and accountable team that is making a difference. Innovation - Drive continuous improvement, spark creativity and embrace next generation thinking. Customer Success - Ensure that customer and driver success is at the heart of everything we do. CULTURAL ATTRIBUTES At Wheels, our culture guides us how we work every day, and we look for team members who show these behaviors: Discipline Drives Quality - Plan the Trip: Think proactively, hold a high bar, follow through by leveraging experience and systems. To produce quality outcomes, we must be intentional and deliberate in everything we do, from big bets to daily execution. Intellectually Curious - Fuel Your Minds: Be bold, challenge assumptions, think differently, look outside the box. Strive to unlock your own thinking and create new possibilities. Commit and Deliver - Own It: Take responsibility for your work, from start to finish, and be accountable for the results. Think and act like an owner of the business. Relationships Matter - Share the Ride: Trust is central, both with key internal and external stakeholders. Relationships are not

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