Associate Category Leader

Rehlko•Kohler, WI

1d•$88,000 - $111,150

About The Position

Our work is guided by our purpose: creating an energy-resilient world for a better future. This purpose embodies the legacy we bring, with more than 100 years as the global leader in energy resilience, delivering solutions critical to sustain and improve life. Our teams have the opportunity to provide a critical resource – energy – that ensures safety, security, and independence for people around the world. Our team members are focused on pushing boundaries, continuing to innovate in an ever-changing landscape, and keeping up with the pace required to create solutions for today’s world demands. Our product range includes engines, generators, power conversion, UPS systems, EV components and electrification solutions, microgrid controls and management, and clean energy solutions that serve a broad spectrum of OEM, residential, industrial, and commercial customers. At Rehlko, you have the freedom to identify, create, and deliver solutions – large and small – that help people and communities thrive in the moments that matter. At Rehlko, our team members are the essential energy that powers our organization’s success. We are committed to fostering a safe and sustainable work environment where safety is everyone’s responsibility. We empower every team member to actively participate in our Zero Is Possible safety culture by encouraging open communication, proactively reporting hazards, following protocols, and suggesting improvements. Join us in creating an energy resilient world for a better future! BASIC FUNCTION Under the general supervision of the Director of Procurement and within the guidelines of Company policies, procedures, controls, and objectives; initiate contact with a wide variety of suppliers to obtain products equal to Rehlko specifications. Conduct sourcing events evaluating total cost of ownership, availability, lead time, and quality that will achieve a competitive advantage for Rehlko and its customers. Award business to successful suppliers based on their financial soundness, technical proficiency, ethical integrity, and ability to meet Rehlko’s needs for quality products and services at the least total cost. Maintain Supplier relationships and drive supplier performance. Provide assistance to the material schedulers when needed to support supplier delivery performance.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited Supply Chain, Business or Engineering Program or bachelor’s degree in a related field.
Five years of purchasing experience required.
Manufacturing background a plus.

Responsibilities

Assist in the management of Engines and Alternator product categories.
Develop an efficient supply base capable of achieving Divisional goals of quality, delivery and pricing through supplier visits, trade shows, personal interviews, telephone and written correspondence both nationally and globally.
Responsible for creating and maintaining an efficient and effective supplier relationship with the supply base.
Actively initiate cost reduction programs and work with Suppliers, Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality and Materials functions for successful implementation.
Provide solutions, alternatives, and ideas to improve commodity group.
Knowledge of leading-edge trends in market and industry, taking initiative to undertake improvement opportunities.
Set spend level strategies for business unit.
Skilled in identifying and implementing continuous improvement opportunities within the company and the supply base.
Create and maintain category strategies for major spend categories.
Provide management with recommendations for current and future sourcing strategies.
Leverage knowledge of the industry and how the supply base can influence Rehlko products including changes in technology, product validation and global factors affecting component availability.
Request and review quotations for new and existing components.
Consult with Engineering and Supplier Quality regarding specification deviations.
Recommend alternative materials or methods based on knowledge of market availability.
Manage New Product Development projects within the Buyers category responsibility.
Work with the Materials Department and Suppliers to develop and maintain production and support inventory programs.
Use sound decision making principles in conducting business which affects price variance, inventory levels, and quality levels.
Write, analyze, and issue various weekly, monthly, and annual reports and status updates.
Establish and maintain supplier stocking programs.
Maintain standard cost files.
Review all Engineering Notifications and drawings covering areas of responsibility.