Category Manager

Job Title: Category Manager Position Overview A Global Manufacturing Company is looking for an experienced Category Manager to oversee strategic sourcing initiatives and lead a high-performing team. This leadership role is responsible for shaping category strategy, strengthening supplier partnerships, and driving overall performance to support company objectives. The ideal candidate will combine strong analytical capabilities with commercial insight to evaluate market conditions, assess competitive landscapes, negotiate supplier agreements, and improve category profitability. Location: Can sit in St. Louis, MO or Albany, NY Key Responsibilities Provide leadership and direction to a team responsible for generating data-driven category insights. Create and execute comprehensive sourcing strategies that align with business goals. Evaluate market opportunities and identify new products or suppliers that support revenue growth and margin improvement. Analyze brand and category performance, recommending pricing and promotional adjustments where appropriate. Track industry trends and competitor activity to ensure strategic alignment and market competitiveness. Negotiate supplier contracts and develop strategic partnerships that enhance supply reliability and promotional effectiveness. Partner closely with cross-functional teams including R&D, Operations, Finance, and Sales to support product and supply initiatives. Manage departmental budgets, timelines, and performance metrics to ensure successful execution of objectives. Leverage ERP and MRP systems, including SAP, to manage procurement planning and purchasing activities. Contribute to enterprise-wide procurement and supply chain improvement initiatives. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, Engineering, Chemistry, or a related discipline. At least five years of experience in sourcing, procurement, or category management. Prior supervisory or team leadership experience (1-3 years minimum). Demonstrated success in supplier negotiations and contract management. Background in manufacturing environments preferred; experience in specialty chemicals is advantageous. Working knowledge of global trade compliance and transportation documentation requirements. Experience utilizing SAP or comparable enterprise systems. Strong understanding of procurement lifecycle processes and best practices. Core Competencies Strategic thinker with the ability to translate market insights into actionable category plans. Effective people leader with experience coaching, mentoring, and developing team members. Skilled negotiator with the ability to build long-term supplier relationships that create mutual value. Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and drive informed decision-making. Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders. Highly organized with the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment. Solution-oriented approach to problem-solving, leveraging data and industry knowledge to implement improvements. Adaptable and proactive, with the ability to navigate changing business needs and market conditions. Nesco Resource offers a comprehensive benefits package for our associates, which includes a MEC (Minimum Essential Coverage) plan that encompasses Medical, Vision, Dental, 401K, and EAP (Employee Assistance Program) services. Nesco Resource provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Created: 2026-03-10