Category Manager

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Tennessee.

📋 Description

• Act as a subject matter expert for supply chains related to industrial and/or electronic components.

• Spearhead the development and implementation of sourcing strategies.

• Integrate supply chains for smart products and solutions across Mueller’s organization.

• Navigate various supply categories and business units while engaging and directing cross-functional teams.

• Provide leadership and guidance to Mueller purchasing staff.

• Serve as a business partner for designated categories and Mueller Operations.

• Oversee annual spending turnover and devise as well as execute sourcing strategies.

• Regulate pricing and costs in alignment with company objectives and market variations.

• Comprehend business potential and formulate plans to achieve optimal costs.

• Operate as the functional leader for the purchasing department within the assigned value stream.

• Manage strategic relationships with suppliers and oversee supplier contracts.

• Direct make-or-buy decisions and their implementations.

• Identify suppliers, assess supplier capacity and inventory, and plan purchases proactively.

• Report progress and support project, value stream, steering committee, and stakeholder meetings.

• Serve as a subject matter expert for supply chains involving systems and technologies.

• Lead supplier development, risk management, capability enhancement, quality improvement, and corrective actions.

• Assist in supply chain risk management and ongoing risk reduction initiatives.

• Collaborate with Engineering on technical design decisions, technical capabilities, costs, and business objectives.

• Ensure supplier adherence to Mueller's requirements and policies.

• Monitor economic and supply chain trends, technologies, legislation, environmental factors, and global tariffs.

⛳️ Requirements

• Relevant background in procurement/sourcing with proven expertise in electronics and technologies.

• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to thrive in a team-oriented environment.

• Strong analytical capabilities.

• Effective verbal and written communication skills.

• Ability to manage and lead through influence.

• Strong negotiation skills with a competitive edge.

• Proficient in developing, creating, and managing RFP/RFQ processes.

• Capability to plan, organize, and prioritize workload effectively to meet project deadlines.

• Ability to accomplish tasks within specified timelines with minimal supervision.

• Global and diverse mindset; adaptable to cultural or situational differences.

• Awareness of risks and strategies for mitigation.

• Proven drive for improvement and value creation.

• Solid understanding of business principles.

• Quick to learn and adept at managing sourcing activities across multiple purchasing groups.

• BA or BS in Supply Chain, Engineering, Business Management, or a relevant field (preferred qualification).

• At least 6 years of relevant experience (preferred qualification).

• Strong background in manufacturing.

• Professional certification in Purchasing, Sourcing, Procurement, or Supply Chain (preferred qualification).

• Experience in industrial manufacturing sourcing and/or electronics is preferred.

🏝️ Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.

• 401k plan with a 5% Company match.

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).

• Short-term and long-term disability benefits.

• Vacation.

• 100% paid parental leave.

• Tuition reimbursement program.

• Student debt retirement matching.

• Well-being program.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

• Company-provided life insurance.

• Supplemental insurance at group rates.

• Attractive salary and benefits package.