Category Analyst

Mathews Brothers Co • Belfast, ME

96d

About The Position

We are seeking a detail-oriented and data-savvy Category Analyst to join our procurement team. In this role, you will analyze inventory trends, forecast demand, support supplier negotiations, and contribute to the sourcing strategy for raw material components. This individual will work cross-functionally with production, planning, and sales teams to ensure timely procurement aligned with business needs. Ideal candidates have strong critical thinking skills, ERP and Excel experience, and a proactive approach to continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Analytics, Finance, or a related field; or equivalent work experience.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel (pivot tables, lookups, modeling); Power BI experience preferred.
• Experience using ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; capable of presenting analysis clearly to stakeholders.
• Strong critical thinking, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Comfortable managing multiple priorities and adapting to changing business needs.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Familiarity with commodity markets and sourcing practices.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a cross-functional setting.
• Passion for leveraging data to drive supply chain performance and strategic outcomes.
• 2+ years of experience in procurement, inventory analysis, or category management (manufacturing experience preferred).

Responsibilities

• Analyze sales, inventory, and consumption trends to assist with creating accurate, data-driven demand forecasts.
• Make buy recommendations and ensure appropriate inventory levels to support production while avoiding overstock or stockouts.
• Monitor and optimize stock positions of raw materials; track usage patterns and adjust procurement strategy accordingly.
• Create and maintain purchase orders; flag and reconcile discrepancies and exceptions.
• Maintain accurate vendor and item data in ERP/CRM systems and ensure real-time updates.
• Track and manage all direct and indirect material orders through system documentation and dashboards.
• Maintain a procurement activity calendar and schedule supplier communications accordingly.
• Evaluate vendor performance and implement supplier development plans.
• Negotiate delivery schedules with suppliers to ensure timely delivery.
• Develop cost models and 'should cost' analyses for key commodities and materials.
• Create and maintain commodity supply/demand forecasts and incorporate macroeconomic market intelligence into procurement strategies.
• Work closely with production planning, operations, sales, and finance teams to align purchasing decisions with business goals.
• Support new product launches with accurate forecasting and supplier engagement.
• Coordinate with internal teams to proactively resolve any procurement-related disruptions.
• Build and maintain reports and dashboards using Excel, Power BI, or similar tools.
• Utilize ERP, CRM, and procurement software for visibility, tracking, and decision-making.
• Participate in or lead initiatives to automate and streamline procurement processes.
• Conduct research and support strategic initiatives related to sustainability, alternative materials, and market arbitrage opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees