Category Manager

USM•Norristown, PA

About The Position

We specialize in providing non-core, mission critical facilities maintenance and management services to large organizations with geographically dispersed properties in various industries such as retail, restaurants, banking, telecommunications, and others with multi-location business operations. The Category Manager performs daily activities associated with the sourcing and procurement of services, including categories such as interior and exterior services, landscaping, snow removal, janitorial, and pest control. This role manages a team of Buyers and oversees the supplier database, including supplier capabilities, cost analysis, and key performance indicators. The Category Manager provides supplier pricing and market analysis to support contract negotiations and ensure optimal sourcing strategies across all managed service categories.

Requirements

Four year degree in business, supply chain management or equivalent combination of education and experience
Minimum five years experience is preferred in general procurement with high customer service requirement
Proficiency is required in Microsoft applications with emphasis on Microsoft Excel
Ability to review and understand general instructions
Strong problem solving skills
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Solid knowledge and support of formal RFx processes and sourcing/procurement activities
Facilities management understanding

Nice To Haves

C.P.S.M. desirable
Proficiency in E-Sourcing tools and their applications an advantage
Experience in ERP systems (SAP preferred)

Responsibilities

Executes daily purchases as appropriate
Works within cross-functional teams in RFx development and execution
Performs cost/value analysis of supplier products or services
Maintains supplier information within supplier database
Monitors trends in the service supply or product markets
Monitors service levels and takes corrective action when necessary
Negotiates agreements (SOW, SLA, etc) with potential suppliers
Investigates and initiates alternate sourcing as appropriate
Investigates and initiates cost savings opportunities
Analyzes and corrects as necessary Accounts Payable discrepancies
Assists in the training of new employees
Ensures that the team can adapt to new situations, issues and objectives
Encourages creative ideas and develops solutions that benefit the business
Translates business goals into concrete objectives and individual performance plans
Recognizes and respects differences
Focuses the team’s attention on goals and objectives during times of uncertainty
Focuses the team on increasing customer satisfaction through the implementation of higher value solutions
Ensures self, team members and customers are effectively working together