Category Lead

OSI Maritime Systems•Burnaby, BC

1d•CA$105,000 - CA$120,000

About The Position

The incumbent is responsible for developing and executing category management strategies for assigned supply categories, ensuring the effective procurement of products and services that support OSI's current and future business needs. This role leads strategic sourcing initiatives, competitive procurements, contract negotiation and administration, supplier performance management, and data-driven decision-making to enhance supply chain performance, efficiency, and value creation. Working closely with cross-functional teams, including Accounting, Engineering, Production, Project Management, Proposals, and Customer Support, the incumbent ensures timely and effective supply chain support for operational and customer requirements. The role also safeguards OSI's commercial interests by ensuring compliance with applicable laws, contractual obligations, corporate policies, and governance standards while maintaining accurate procurement and contract records.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field with 7+ years of progressive supply chain, procurement, or category management experience; equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.
Demonstrated experience in strategic sourcing, competitive procurement, supplier relationship management, contract negotiation and administration, purchase order management, and vendor performance management.
Experience operating within complex manufacturing, engineering, or technical environments, including Lean, ISO, JIT, and ERP/MRP systems (Epicor experience is an asset).
Strong knowledge of supply chain operations, logistics, inventory management, cost analysis, domestic and international sourcing, and quality management principles.
Excellent planning, analytical, problem-solving, decision-making, communication, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to interpret technical documentation.
Highly detail-oriented, collaborative, and proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Project.

Nice To Haves

Professional supply chain certification preferred (e.g., SCMP, CPSM, CPIM, P.Log).
Marine industry experience is considered an asset.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute category-based supply strategies for critical products, driving sourcing, supplier selection, contract negotiation, and long-term supply continuity.
Manage the full procurement lifecycle, including demand planning, competitive sourcing (RFI/RFQ/RFP), order management, inventory optimization, and risk mitigation.
Lead supplier relationship and performance management through KPIs, scorecards, continuous improvement initiatives, and strategic partnerships.
Negotiate, execute, and administer complex supply agreements to achieve commercial, operational, and business objectives.
Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to support program, production, inventory, and customer delivery requirements.
Identify, evaluate, qualify, and onboard new suppliers, including capability assessments and site visits as required.
Leverage ERP/MRP systems to optimize material planning, inventory levels, distribution, and supply chain performance.
Ensure compliance with supply chain policies, governance, and contract approval processes; prepare procurement metrics and KPI reporting.
Manage supplier returns, repairs, and material disposition activities to maintain supply continuity.
Mentor and support junior team members in category management, strategic sourcing, contract management, and supplier performance best practices.