MRO Category Manager

Novolex • Lake Forest, IL

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Implements and executes the strategy for Maintenance, Repair, and Operations categories, ensuring reliable supply, cost optimization, and operational continuity. Partners cross-functionally to manage suppliers, negotiate contracts, standardize spend, and deliver measurable value at scale.
This is an on-site role based in either Lake Forest, IL or Charlotte, NC

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or a related field
• 6-8 years of experience in MRO or indirect spend category management, preferably in large, complex organizations
• Proven track record of delivering measurable cost savings, operational improvements, and post-merger synergy realization
• Strong experience with Ariba, Coupa, SAP punchout catalogs, e-procurement systems, and guided buying strategies
• Expertise in supplier management, contract negotiations, and performance optimization
• Hands-on experience supporting MRO inventory strategy, standard process implementation, and enterprise-wide program execution
• Exceptional cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management skills
• Analytical mindset with the ability to leverage data to drive decisions and identify opportunities
• Strong understanding of risk management, compliance, and continuous improvement methodologies

Nice To Haves

• MBA or advanced degree preferred

Responsibilities

• Implement and execute MRO category strategies to optimize cost, quality, and supply continuity
• Own supplier selection, negotiations, contracts, and performance management
• Drive spend visibility, standardization, and post-merger or multi-site synergies
• Partner across organizational functions to implement programs enterprise-wide, supporting operational continuity, safety, and scalable execution
• Identify and deliver cost-savings and efficiency opportunities at scale
• Manage risk, ensure compliance, and support continuous improvement initiatives
• Define and execute Ariba and punchout catalog strategies to improve compliance, user experience, and guided buying adoption
• Partner across organizational functions to support MRO inventory strategy, governance, and end-to-end inventory processes
• Provide support to operations in implementing standard MRO processes across the organization

Benefits

• 401(k) plan with company match
• comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• flexible spending and health savings accounts
• paid vacation, and sick days
• paid parental leave
• paid holidays
• wellness program

What This Job Offers

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