Category Manager III

TDS Telecom

1d•Remote

About The Position

The Category Manager III is responsible for developing sourcing strategies for assigned categories to drive cost savings and ensure informed purchasing decisions. Leads supplier request processes (RFX) Request for Information (RFI), Request for Proposal (RFP), Request for Quote (RFQ), and Request for Bid (RFB). Additionally, evaluates and negotiates the most complex procurement agreements (including contractual terms and pricing), manages stakeholder relationships, leads cross-functional teams in identifying and executing sourcing opportunities for achieving or exceeding cost saving goals while managing supplier performance. This position is for a professional, advanced, expert level associate who works independently and leads complex Category Management activities. This position has the ability to work remotely in any of the 40+ States in which TDS Telecom operates.

Requirements

Bachelors degree (or higher) -OR- 4+ years of professional work experience.
10+ years of sourcing or procurement experience.
Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of supply chain, category management, strategic sourcing, negotiations and contracting concepts.
Proven ability to lead teams, manage projects and achieve project goals; identify opportunities through data and financial analysis, risk assessment and process review; and negotiate purchasing agreements a plus.
Knowledge of, and experience with, ERP (particularly SAP), Contract Management and E-Sourcing Systems; familiarity with e-procurement technologies.
Knowledge of the telecommunications or wireless industry is beneficial.
Proficient in Windows and MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Project).
Interpersonal and customer service skills.

Nice To Haves

CPSM, PMP or Six Sigma certification a plus.

Responsibilities

Lead cross-functional sourcing teams; prepare and develop requests (RF – X) and scoring models; perform vendor analysis; develop service level agreements (SLA); and manage associated sourcing projects.
Demonstrate high level of understanding and ability to redline basic contractual terms such as Indemnity, Limitations of Liability and insurance.
Maintain thorough knowledge of products & services within category area(s) of focus, supplier's processes and industry trends and practices. Actively identify sourcing and cost savings through category, spend, financial and industry data to identify sourcing, as well as cost- savings and reduction opportunities through analysis and risk assessment and collaboration with clients and stakeholders to meet or exceed cost saving targets.
Negotiate mutually beneficial, high value purchasing agreements with key suppliers.
Build and maintain relationships with internal clients and key stakeholders, such as Operations, Legal, Accounting and Finance by identifying and addressing purchasing/contracting needs. Present sourcing opportunities to build internal support among clients and stakeholders.
Establish and maintain supplier relationships. Manage supplier performance and perform supplier evaluations. Develop plans for service improvement and implement corrective actions where necessary.
Provide informal direction and leadership to sourcing and procurement team members. May assist with mentoring and assisting in the development of existing team.