Category Specialist

About the position

The Category Specialist is responsible for developing, executing, and sustaining their assigned categories of related purchased goods and/or services along with other duties as assigned. Responsibilities include independently managing multiple related spend categories, supplier performance management, customer relationship development, determination of customer needs, demand management, and forecasting for goods and services. The person holding this position will have a varied background and demonstrate proficiency in coordinating the sourcing, bidding, procurement, and implementation of a diverse variety of goods, services, equipment, and services. This position would also monitor contract compliance for the University and manage the development and implementation of negotiation strategies. Additionally, the Category Specialist will create and review supplier contracts to ensure appropriate business terms are addressed, facilitate legal and risk management review to ensure standard terms and conditions are inserted where appropriate, and lead sourcing events, including developing and managing the IFB/RFP process through award and/or lead supplier negotiations. The Category Specialist is responsible for managing competitive solicitations, contract creation, contract execution, and renewals. Fostering campus collaboration and providing customer service are key components of this position.

Responsibilities

• Independently manage multiple related spend categories
• Manage supplier performance
• Develop customer relationships
• Determine customer needs
• Manage demand
• Forecast for goods and services
• Monitor contract compliance for the University
• Develop and implement negotiation strategies
• Create and review supplier contracts
• Facilitate legal and risk management review
• Lead sourcing events and manage IFB/RFP process
• Prepare business cases through data and spend analysis
• Track trends in the marketplace and monitor price indices
• Identify new sources of supply and engage with new suppliers
• Work collaboratively with suppliers and customer stakeholders
• Execute continuous cost and performance improvement
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Strong analytical skills
• Excellent written communication skills
• Strong verbal communication skills
• High proficiency with Microsoft Office software (PowerPoint, Excel, Word, etc.)