Category Manager

Stride, Inc.•US - VA - Remote, VA

7d•$102,229 - $136,305•Remote

About The Position

The Category Manager will strategically manage and optimize the Procurement process. You will be responsible for developing and implementing category strategies to efficiently source software, goods, and services, negotiate contracts and collaborate with internal stakeholders to deliver high-quality sourcing solutions, while achieving cost savings. The position requires a strategic and operational leader, responsible for driving category strategy, sourcing execution, contract negotiations, and procurement transformation across key enterprise spend areas, with a primary focus on Marketing, HR, and Finance categories, while supporting broader business needs as a flexible generalist. This role will partner closely with executive stakeholders to develop and execute category strategies, lead complex sourcing initiatives, and optimize supplier performance. In parallel, this leader will play a critical role in implementing and operationalizing an AI-driven intake-to-pay procurement platform, driving adoption, workflow design, and process standardization across the organization. The ideal candidate brings a blend of category expertise, operational agility, and procurement technology leadership, with a strong understanding of end-to-end Source-to-Pay (S2P) processes.

Requirements

Five (5) years in various Procurement category leadership roles, with track record of successfully managing complex Procurement categories and partnering with executive level stakeholders
Three (3) years of management experience
Strong negotiation skills and a demonstrated ability to drive cost savings
In depth knowledge of Procurement best practices, category management, market trends, and contracting
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with stakeholders and cross-functional teams
Strong analytical, problem solving and project management skills

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain or related field, MBA highly preferred
Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)
Experience in Education Technology industry
Experience consolidating / integrating subsidiary and affiliate strategic contracts
Experience with AI-based intake to pay procurement systems and NetSuite a plus

Responsibilities

Develop and execute category strategies aligned with business priorities
Act as a trusted advisor to senior stakeholders across various categories of spend
Lead complex sourcing initiatives end-to-end, including RFPs, supplier selection, and negotiations
Operate as a flexible procurement partner, supporting day-to-day sourcing and contracting needs across additional categories as business demand requires
Triage and prioritize incoming requests, balancing strategic initiatives with tactical execution
Establish and manage preferred supplier programs and rationalized supplier portfolios
Drive total cost of ownership, value creation, and risk mitigation strategies
Ensure consistent application of procurement policies, processes, and controls across all engagements
Lead strategic supplier relationship management, including performance reviews and governance models
Independently lead commercial negotiations and contract redlining in partnership with Legal, InfoSec, and Finance
Identify opportunities for supplier consolidation, cost optimization, and innovation
Serve as a key team member in the implementation and rollout of an AI-based intake-to-pay procurement platform
Partner with cross-functional teams to design and optimize intake workflows, approval routing, and user experience
Drive system adoption and change management across the managed departments across the organization
Translate business needs into system requirements and continuously improve procurement processes through technology
Identify and lead initiatives to improve procurement efficiency, scalability, and user experience
Develop and deliver stakeholder education and enablement programs
Provide mentorship to procurement professionals
Directly supervises 1 - 4 Full-time Equivalent (FTE) regular employees and/or contractors. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.