Category Manager

Amphenol; Downers Grove (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Amphenol Fiber Optic Products is seeking an experienced Category Manager to lead sourcing strategies, optimize costs, strengthen supplier relationships, and drive continuous improvement across our supply chain.

You will collaborate with Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Product Line Management on new product introductions, develop Should Cost models, monitor global commodity trends, and lead strategic sourcing initiatives across our global operations.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in strategic sourcing, category management, or procurement.
• Strong negotiation, supplier management, and analytical skills.
• Technical acumen to understand materials and manufacturing processes.
• Experience developing Should Cost models and managing projects.
• Ability to work cross-functionally with global teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category sourcing strategies focused on cost optimization, dual sourcing, supplier performance, and lead-time improvement.
• Lead supplier selection, qualification, contract negotiations, and strategic partnerships.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Product Line Management to support NPI.
• Develop Should Cost models and leverage market intelligence to drive competitive pricing.
• Monitor global commodity trends, supplier capacity, and supply chain risks.
• Lead strategic sourcing initiatives and support purchasing teams across our global operations.

Skills

Strategic sourcing

Category management

Negotiation

Supplier management

Analytics

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Amphenol Fiber Optic Products is looking for an experienced Category Manager to lead sourcing strategies, strengthen supplier relationships, and drive continuous improvement across our supply chain.

What You'll Do:

• Develop and execute category sourcing strategies focused on cost optimization, dual sourcing, supplier performance, and lead-time improvement.
• Lead supplier selection, qualification, contract negotiations, and strategic partnerships.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Product Line Management to support new product introductions (NPI).
• Develop Should Cost models and leverage market intelligence to drive competitive pricing.
• Monitor global commodity trends, supplier capacity, and supply chain risks.
• Lead strategic sourcing initiatives and support purchasing teams across our global operations.

What We're Looking For:

• 5+ years of experience in strategic sourcing, category management, or procurement.
• Strong negotiation, supplier management, and analytical skills.
• Technical acumen and the ability to understand complex materials, products, and manufacturing processes.
• Experience developing Should Cost models and managing strategic sourcing projects.
• Ability to work cross-functionally, navigate ambiguity, and collaborate with global teams
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.