Associate Category Manager – Global Procurement

Mattel • El Segundo, CA

4d

About The Position

As our go-to expert for Logistics sourcing, you’ll own categories like robotics, automation and material handling equipment. You’ll collaborate with a network of cross-functional teams to drive cost savings, negotiate with top-tier vendors, and ensure our logistics network is lean, agile, and ready for anything.

Requirements

• 3-5 years of strategic sourcing experience (bonus if it’s in logistics or supply chain categories)
• A bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Finance, or a related field is required; an MBA is preferred
• Top-notch negotiation skills and the ability to influence across all levels
• Strong financial acumen and analytical skills (Excel is your playground)
• Clear, confident communication skills and executive presence
• Experience working independently and managing multiple priorities
• Experience developing contracts in partnership with Legal and Risk Management
• Demonstrated a growth mindset by staying curious and continuously learning, embracing challenges, and improving themselves.

Nice To Haves

• CPG industry experience
• Familiarity with procurement platforms (Coupa, CSO, Oracle, Infor Nexus)
• Spanish fluency (written and verbal)
• CPM or equivalent certification
• Willingness to travel up to 10%

Responsibilities

• Own and develop category strategies for logistics activities including robotics, automation and material handling equipment, grounded in data, forecasts, and stakeholder needs.
• Lead full-cycle sourcing initiatives (RFI/RFQ/RFP) globally —managing the projects from strategy and execution to vendor selection and contract closeout.
• Drive strategic decision-making by evaluating leasing vs buying options for Capital Expenditures (CAPEX) to achieve the best financial outcome.
• Act as the category expert—track industry trends, evaluate supplier capabilities, and continuously refine sourcing strategies to align with business goals.
• Drive supplier performance through KPIs, operational scorecards, and relationship management (SRM).
• Partner cross-functionally with Finance, Legal, and Logistics teams to align sourcing activities with company objectives.
• Influence and negotiate at all levels, from frontline suppliers to senior stakeholders, ensuring best-in-class deals and sustainable partnerships.
• Contribute to strategic planning by supporting budgeting, forecasting, and logistics roadmap development.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level