Category Manager

Aston Carter•Kildeer, IL

7d•$35 - $44•Hybrid

About The Position

The Category Manager supports plants and local business teams in procuring items, reviewing vendor and project requirements, and matching requirements with appropriate vendors. The role supports contract negotiations and implements category strategies within the country. It is a hybrid contract position based in Kildeer, Illinois. Onboarding and training initially require five days onsite; once established, the schedule is three days onsite and two days remote per week. The team provides significant training and prioritizes core sourcing and RFP experience over industry-specific knowledge. A strong cultural fit is considered important.

Requirements

At least 3 years of experience in procurement, sourcing, category management, or strategic purchasing.
Hands-on experience leading or supporting the full RFP process, including supplier identification, bid management, evaluation, selection, and onboarding.
Strong analytical skills to evaluate supplier proposals, pricing structures, discounts, and rate cards.
Experience with supplier or vendor management, including negotiating terms.
Advanced Excel skills for data analysis and supplier comparisons.
Experience managing sourcing projects from initial RFP through supplier implementation and project completion.
Confident and proactive communication skills and strong presentation skills.
Project management and servant leadership experience.
Strong cultural fit.

Nice To Haves

Experience in category management.
Procurement experience in categories such as Marketing, Fleet, and/or Travel.
Experience with contract management systems, preferably Ariba.
SAP experience.
Direct involvement in RFPs, spend analysis, or vendor evaluations.

Responsibilities

Support category strategy development by providing local requirements and data, participating in category working groups, and aligning with local stakeholders.
Define sourcing strategy and RFX approach.
Manage the RFX process, including negotiation and evaluation of proposals.
Manage supplier selection decision-making and supplier awarding.
Oversee contract creation and review processes with internal functions and suppliers.
Manage contract sign-off and archiving.
Support onboarding of new suppliers when necessary.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Great benefits package, subject to eligibility and applicable terms.
Work-life balance.
Stability and opportunities for growth into other areas of the dealership over time.
Medical, dental, and vision coverage, if eligible.
Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital coverage, if eligible.
401(k) retirement plan with pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available, if eligible.
Voluntary Life and AD&D insurance for employees and dependents, if eligible.
Short- and long-term disability coverage, if eligible.
Health Spending Account (HSA), if eligible.
Transportation benefits, if eligible.
Employee Assistance Program, if eligible.
Time off/leave, including PTO, vacation, or sick leave, if eligible.