Category Manager

Summary :

The role involves overseeing the supply chain for a diverse range of corporate needs and managing contractual commitments valued up to $100 million annually.

This includes procuring services across various domains such as acility Management, Finance, Customer Services, Human Resources, Marketing, Communications, and other indirect services.

The focus is on achieving the best overall cost of ownership while ensuring adherence to quality and schedule requirements.

Key responsibilities include developing contract models and strategies, managing Request for Proposals (RFPs), and determining supply chain models for services and materials.

The role requires effective communication with technical experts and managers, inventory management, contract administration, negotiations, market and financial analysis, supplier relationship development, and performance tracking.

Additionally, the role drives continuous improvement and productivity with both suppliers and customers.

Responsibilites :

Serve as the corporate expert for assigned categories, understanding market drivers, supplier bases, emerging technologies, regulatory factors, and category spend.

Manage the entire supply chain for your category from start to finish.

• Evaluate and formulate the company’s stance on claims and disputes, and work with senior management to negotiate and resolve issues related to complex procurements.
• Oversee the entire supply chain process, from defining needs and issuing Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to negotiating, executing, and administering contracts.

Assess suppliers, develop pricing strategies, and establish warranty and performance requirements. Select the most strategic supply chain model to maximize savings.

Develop and implement negotiation strategies for complex, multi-million-dollar contracts, collaborating with the Office of General Counsel to ensure adequate commercial protection.

Conduct negotiations to secure optimal business outcomes for the company.

• Identify and evaluate new suppliers and products / technologies. Build and maintain professional relationships with suppliers and partners, adhering to ethical business practices outlined in the Standards of Integrity and PPL’s Supply Chain Policies.
• Perform market and financial analyses to assess risks associated with suppliers or contracts. Address identified risks through measures such as currency hedging, performance and payment bonds, or parental guarantees.
• Authorized to award contracts up to $3,000,000 without additional management review.
• Act as the primary liaison for suppliers within assigned categories.
• May be required to take on emergency and storm roles during storms and other crises to assist in power restoration or address other customer service issues.

This may involve working outside regular hours.

Perform other duties and projects as assigned.

Qualifications :

• Experience in Electric and Gas Utility supply chain (Distribution and / or Transmission and Substations).
• Bachelor's degree in business, engineering, supply chain, or related field or 8 years related experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of services buying experience.
• Supply Chain and market knowledge of products, equipment, and services.
• Basic knowledge of business law, commercial terms and conditions, and related legal issues.

Preferred Qualifications :

• Certified Purchasing Manager (C.P.M) or Certified Professional in Supply Management (C.P.S.M). or other Supply Chain Certification.
• Background in Lean, Six Sigma, or similar process improvement models.
16 days ago