Category Manager, Raw Materials

DSJ Global; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A global leader in advanced manufacturing is seeking a Category Manager to lead procurement for core raw materials, focusing on metals and construction-grade materials to support strategic initiatives across North America. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree and over 5 years of experience in global sourcing, excellent negotiation skills, and a strong analytical background. This is a full-time position that offers high visibility and autonomy in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in global sourcing or commodity management.
• Proven success in developing and executing commodity strategies.
• Comfort managing large budgets and financial acumen required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute regional sourcing strategies.
• Lead supplier negotiations and contract management.
• Monitor global market trends to adjust sourcing strategies.

Skills

Commodity market understanding

Supplier negotiations

Cost management

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Project management

Education

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

Job description

Join a global leader in advanced manufacturing and smart mobility solutions, known for its commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and sustainability. The company fosters a collaborative, forward-thinking culture where supply chain professionals can make a tangible impact on global operations. We are seeking a Category Manager to lead procurement efforts for core raw materials used in large-scale production. This role will focus on metals and construction-grade materials, supporting strategic initiatives across North America.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong understanding of commodity markets, supplier negotiations, and cost management. This position offers high visibility, autonomy, and the opportunity to influence sourcing decisions that directly impact operational performance.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and execute regional sourcing strategies for key raw materials, ensuring alignment with global procurement goals and long-term business objectives.
• Lead supplier negotiations and contract management for high-impact raw materials and construction-grade materials, driving cost efficiency and supply continuity.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with manufacturing, engineering, and finance teams to support operational needs, resolve escalations, and influence decision-making at multiple levels.
• Monitor global and regional market trends, including pricing fluctuations, geopolitical risks, and supply chain disruptions, to proactively adjust sourcing strategies.
• Own supplier relationships across assigned categories, fostering performance improvement, innovation, and risk mitigation through structured engagement and accountability.
• Own and influence the P&L by driving sourcing decisions that directly impact material costs, supplier performance, and overall financial outcomes across a $50M+ spend portfolio.
• Drive localization and reshoring initiatives to reduce tariff exposure and enhance supply chain resilience across North American operations.
• Lead cost optimization and value engineering projects, identifying opportunities for savings through process improvements, alternative sourcing, and strategic partnerships.
• Maintain and enhance procurement analytics tools, ensuring accurate data reporting, forecasting, and scenario modeling to support executive-level decision-making.
• Champion compliance and governance across sourcing activities, ensuring adherence to internal policies and external regulatory requirements.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in global sourcing or commodity management, with a focus on raw materials (metal, plastic, etc.).
• Proven success in developing and executing commodity strategies in a complex, global environment.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data, model scenarios, and manage quantitative analysis.
• Financial acumen and comfort managing large budgets.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Self-starter with the ability to lead initiatives independently and collaboratively.
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Management, Purchasing, and Supply Chain

Industries

• Appliances, Electrical, and Electronics Manufacturing
• Commercial and Service Industry Machinery Manufacturing
• Industrial Machinery Manufacturing