Category Manager

Job Description

The Kinetic Group is seeking a Category Manager to lead the Supply Chain initiative of driving down the total cost of goods/services and support production planning within a given area. Working in collaboration with the business units, cross-functional leaders and key suppliers, the Category Manager sets a goal to deliver cost-competitive, high quality goods, and reliable delivery with a continual focus on risk mitigation. Successful Category Managers will create strong internal/external relationships that drive continuously-improved key supplier performance and enhance our portfolio of brands' value.

This position reports to the VP of Supply Chain Operations and is based out of our Anoka, Minnesota office.

*Will consider applicants from Lonoke, Arkansas or Lewiston, Idaho areas as well.

As the Category Manager, your responsibilities will include:

Category Strategy and Reporting:

• Develop and execute category-specific procurement strategies aligned with business objectives.

• Analyze category performance metrics, including spend, cost savings, supplier performance, and inventory levels.

• Prepare regular reports on category performance, trends, and opportunities for improvement.

Supplier Relationship Management:

• Cultivate strong relationships with suppliers, ensuring timely delivery, quality, and competitive pricing.

• Collaborate with vendors to enhance reporting capabilities and data transparency.

Sourcing and Selection:

• Source new suppliers and evaluate their capabilities.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to select suppliers based on quality, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.

Contract Management and Compliance:

• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts with suppliers.

• Ensure compliance with contractual terms and conditions.

• Monitor supplier performance against agreed-upon metrics.

Inventory Management and Demand Forecasting:

• Optimize inventory levels to balance cost and availability.

• Work closely with inventory control teams to prevent stockouts and excess inventory.

• Forecast product demand based on historical data and market trends.

Cost Analysis and Budgeting:

• Analyze total cost of ownership (TCO) for purchased goods.

• Prepare and manage category budgets, considering both direct and indirect costs.

Continuous Improvement:

• Identify process inefficiencies and implement improvements.

• Stay informed about industry best practices and technological advancements related to category management and reporting.

You have:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field

• 5+ years in a supply chain environment with hands-on responsibility for major supplier initiatives and performance

• Proven experience as a Category Manager or in procurement/purchasing roles.

• Strong analytical skills and familiarity with sourcing tools.

• Proficiency in using procurement software and tools.

• Excellent communication skills for effective reporting and collaboration.

• Ability to travel up to 30%

We offer a highly competitive salary, comprehensive benefits including: medical and dental, vision, disability and life insurance, 401K, PTO, tuition reimbursement, gear discounts and the ability to add value to an exciting mission!

Our Postings are not intended for distribution to or use in any jurisdiction, country or territory where such distribution or use would violate local law or would subject us to any regulations in another jurisdiction, country or territory. We reserve the right to limit our Postings in any jurisdiction, country or territory.

Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Females/Protected Veteran/Disabled