Procurement Category Manager

Knobelsdorff Enterprises•Goodhue, MN

16h•$120,000 - $135,000•Hybrid

About The Position

This role supports KE's Supply Chain and Operations teams by developing and executing procurement strategies that drive value across materials, equipment, services, and operational purchasing. You'll be responsible for strategic sourcing, supplier management, contract negotiations, and purchase order oversight that directly impact project execution, operational efficiency, and company profitability. Success in this role means delivering measurable cost savings, strengthening supplier partnerships, reducing supply chain risk, and ensuring our teams have the resources they need to succeed, all while upholding KE's commitment to Safety, People, Passion, and Performance. If you're someone who takes pride in building relationships, solving problems, and finding smarter ways to support a growing business, this position is built for you.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations, Finance, or a related field.
5+ years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, category management, or supply chain management.
Experience negotiating contracts and managing supplier relationships.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Experience developing sourcing strategies and leading competitive bid processes.
Excellent communication, relationship-building, and influencing skills.
Proficiency with ERP systems, procurement software, and Microsoft Office applications.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting construction, industrial, manufacturing, energy, or specialty contracting organizations preferred.
Professional certifications such as CPSM, CPM, CPIM, or CSCP preferred.
Experience with supplier scorecards, category planning, and strategic sourcing programs preferred.
Knowledge of inventory management, forecasting, and procurement best practices preferred.
Experience leading continuous improvement and cost-reduction initiatives preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute category strategies for assigned areas of spend, including materials, equipment, services, and operational purchasing.
Process, review, and manage purchase orders to ensure accuracy, proper approvals, timely placement, and alignment with project and operational requirements.
Lead supplier sourcing, evaluation, negotiation, and selection processes.
Negotiate pricing, terms, rebate programs, and service agreements to maximize value and reduce costs.
Build and manage strategic supplier relationships while monitoring supplier performance.
Partner with project teams and operational leaders to understand demand forecasts and procurement requirements.
Identify opportunities for standardization, consolidation, and process improvements across procurement activities.
Monitor market trends, commodity pricing, and supply chain risks to proactively support business needs.
Collaborate with Finance and Operations to track savings initiatives, purchasing metrics, and procurement performance.
Support preferred vendor programs and ensure compliance with procurement policies and procedures.
Analyze spend data and develop recommendations that improve purchasing decisions and operational efficiency.
Resolve purchase order discrepancies, invoice issues, and supplier concerns to maintain continuity of supply and accurate financial records.
Up to 15-25% travel for supplier visits, company locations, industry events, and business meetings.