Category Manager - MRO, Packaging, Utilities

ManpowerGroup Global, Inc.; Mendota Heights (MN); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

ManpowerGroup Global, Inc. is seeking a Category Manager to lead strategic sourcing for MRO spend across the enterprise. This 4-6 month contract in Minneapolis combines office-based collaboration with hybrid work, requiring presence three days a week.

The role focuses on TCO reduction, supplier performance, and standardization across locations. You will partner with operations, warehouse, and procurement teams to optimize supplier partnerships, drive cost reductions, and manage a $30-35M

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years in strategic sourcing or category management with MRO spend.
• 5+ years in contract negotiations.
• Strong knowledge of MRO categories and supply market dynamics.
• Proven ability to manage supplier relationships and influence stakeholders.
• Advanced data analysis and cost modeling skills using Excel.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies for MRO categories across locations.
• Lead supplier selection, RFx events, negotiations, and contracting.
• Track spend, KPIs, and develop cost models and forecasts.
• Implement supplier performance programs and scorecards.
• Support inventory optimization and parts availability with operations.
• Negotiate contracts covering warranty, service, and maintenance.
• Drive compliance with preferred suppliers and procurement policies.
• Champion continuous improvement and cost reduction in MRO processes.

Skills

Data analysis

Excel proficient

Negotiations

Project management

Stakeholder management

Cross-functional collaboration

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Operations, Engineering, or related field

Tools

CMMS

ERP systems

Coupa

Ariba

GEP

Job description

CATEGORY MANAGER

4-6 MONTH CONTRACT ONLY

MINNEAPOLIS, MN--This is a hybrid position. The selected candidate will be required to be in office 3 days per week.

Job Summary

This position leads the strategic sourcing and category management for Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) spend across the enterprise. The MRO Category Manager develops and executes sourcing strategies that optimize supplier partnerships, reduce total cost of ownership (TCO), and ensure continuity of supply for critical indirect goods and services. This role partners closely with operations, warehouse, and procurement teams to drive value through improved availability, standardization, and supplier performance. The position is responsible for managing $30 - 35MM in indirect spend, with a focus on reliability, responsiveness, and efficiency in MRO support across all locations.

Essential Functions

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies for MRO categories including MRO supplies, MRO services, energy/utilities, packaging, and certain capital expenditures, aligning with business goals and operational needs.
• Partner with cross-functional stakeholders to define requirements and drive standardization across locations.
• Lead supplier selection, RFx events, negotiations, and contracting while leveraging competitive intelligence and market data to secure best-in-class pricing, service levels, and lead times.
• Track and analyze category performance, including spend, and supplier KPIs. Develop cost models, forecasts, and strategies to mitigate risk.
• Implement and manage supplier performance programs, including scorecards, business reviews, and corrective action planning to ensure high supplier service levels.
• Support inventory optimization and parts availability initiatives in collaboration with warehouse and maintenance teams.
• Negotiate and manage contracts, ensuring proper terms for warranty, service response, preventative maintenance, and product availability.
• Drive compliance with preferred suppliers, procurement policies, and standard MRO practices across the enterprise.
• Champion continuous improvement, innovation, and cost reduction initiatives related to MRO processes and systems.
• Develop and manage team member(s) on their day-to-day activities in support of the MRO category.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Supply Chain, Business, Operations, Engineering, or a related field - or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 5+ years of experience in strategic sourcing or category management, including responsibility for MRO or fulfillment center related indirect spend.
• 5+ years of contract negotiation experience
• Strong understanding of MRO categories, distribution channels, and supply market dynamics.
• Demonstrated ability to manage supplier relationships, lead negotiations, and influence stakeholders across functions and levels.
• High proficiency in data analysis, cost modeling, and Excel; able to turn insights into actions.
• Strong project management and organizational skills; able to juggle multiple initiatives and deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience working cross-functionally with operations and warehouse environments.
• Experience leading and developing teams

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with CMMS, ERP systems, or digital procurement tools (e.g., Coupa, Ariba, GEP).
• 5-8 years of experience in a sourcing role with increasing responsibility
• Contracting experience, particularly in service agreements, equipment warranties, and performance-based contracts.
• Lean, Six Sigma, or other operational improvement training or mindset.