Global Category Manager – OFCI Infrastructure

STRM Recruiting • Elk Grove Village, IL

1d • $130,000 - $150,000 • Remote

About The Position

STRM Recruiting is partnering with a client that develops, acquires, and operates data centers for large enterprises. This client is a private firm with significant assets under management and a strong track record in technology and real estate development. They offer flexible leasing models and aim for true corporate partnerships. The Global Category Manager will lead the OFCI (Owner Furnished, Contractor Installed) commercial ecosystem, managing the entire lifecycle of critical infrastructure equipment. This role is crucial for supporting the client's rapid global expansion by architecting the OFCI strategy, ensuring robust commercial relationships, contract frameworks, and equipment pipelines.

Requirements

• 8–12+ years in Global Sourcing, Category Management, or Supply Chain Leadership, specifically within the data center or heavy infrastructure space.
• Deep familiarity with the OFCI procurement model and the challenges of owner-managed equipment in a contractor-led construction environment.
• Proven track record of negotiating 9-figure spends in the data center, semiconductor, or energy sectors.
• Understanding of data center infrastructure, including cooling systems and the electrical value chain, with the ability to discuss scope commercially and technically.
• Ability to manage complex allocation matrices and delivery schedules across multiple time zones and currencies.
• Strong collaboration skills with Legal, Engineering, and Construction Management teams.
• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, or Business.
• Ability to travel globally (approx. 20%) to visit supplier factories and site builds.

Nice To Haves

• Understanding the difference between a chilled water system and direct-to-chip cooling.
• Knowledge of key players in the electrical value chain.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive global category strategy for OFCI equipment.
• Define the client's standard for engaging with OEMs to drive cost efficiencies and speed-to-market.
• Act as the executive point of contact for global vendors, building and maintaining strategic partnerships for capacity reservation.
• Lead the negotiation of Main Purchase Agreements (MPAs), Main Service Agreements (MSAs), and warranty frameworks, mitigating risks related to lead times, liquidated damages, and performance.
• Manage the global equipment allocation process, aligning supplier production with construction needs across international markets.
• Partner with Engineering and Design teams to drive equipment standardization and influence the Basis of Design (BOD) for commercial viability and scalability.
• Drive Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) reductions through competitive bidding, volume leveraging, and index-based pricing.
• Monitor global supply chain health, identifying potential bottlenecks in raw materials or logistics impacting OFCI delivery.

Benefits

• Base salary range: $130-$150K
• Competitive project and performance bonus program
• 401k fully vested upon enrollment, up to a 4% employer match
• 100% employee premiums paid by employer for medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability
• Paid Time Off + Sick time

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior