Sr. Category Specialist

Air Liquide•Houston, TX

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Air Liquide is hiring for a Sr. Category Specialist in Houston, TX. This role is responsible for the governance and operational performance of Suppliers, driving continuous improvement. The position involves creating and deploying short and long-term category strategies, managing spend, including strategic sourcing, contract negotiation and management, commercial negotiations, supplier relationship management support, demand planning, and customer interface. The Sr. Category Specialist also assists in the development and deployment of Category Management strategies.

Requirements

Candidates must have valid employment authorization in the U.S. and must not require visa sponsorship now or in the future.
Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience required.
Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or other business related fields required.
Expected to 'create and deploy' short and long-term category strategies.
Specific mandate for the 'governance and operational performance of Suppliers' and driving continuous improvement.
Requires higher-level behaviors within key competencies, such as 'Making Complex Plans' (Analytical Thinking) and 'Using complex influence strategies' (Impact and Influence).

Nice To Haves

Prior industrial gas experience

Responsibilities

Creates and implements category strategies and business plans to create sustainable value and Total Cost of Ownership Strategy Development.
Guides and facilitates strategic sourcing events and nurtures the lifecycle of agreements and frame contracts.
Builds alignment on commercial terms and legal conditions while integrating market insights to identify savings and ensure stability.
Fosters supplier growth and excellence through the development of meaningful indicators, periodic business reviews, and continuous improvement plans.
Partners with internal stakeholders on demand planning and supports alignment with all regulatory requirements and internal policies.