Category Manager - Rotating Equipment

Hanwha Ocean; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering solutions provider is seeking a Category Manager based in Houston, TX. This role involves developing sourcing strategies, managing supplier relationships, and negotiating contracts within the EPCI sector of the Oil & Gas industry. The ideal candidate will have a bachelor's degree and 7–10 years of relevant experience. Excellent problem-solving and planning skills are essential, as well as the ability to build effective relationships across stakeholders. Important to note: visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Qualifications

• 7–10 years of strategic procurement experience within the EPCI sector.
• Demonstrated technical expertise in the relevant product category.
• Excellent planning and time management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic sourcing strategies.
• Foster strong supplier relationships.
• Negotiate competitive contracts.

Skills

Strategic sourcing

Market analysis

Supplier relationship management

Contract negotiation

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or business

Master's degree

Job description

Description

Hanwha Ocean is undergoing a transformative journey, evolving from a traditional shipbuilder into a comprehensive Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation, and Operation (EPCI(O)) solutions provider. Our portfolio now spans FPSO, FLNG, offshore renewables, floating production units, as well as major developments across onshore energy and infrastructure sectors.

Location: Houston, TX, US
Requisition ID: 1404

Position Overview

As a Category Manager, your primary responsibility is to develop and implement strategic sourcing strategies that align with business objectives and ensure long-term sustainability. You will play a critical role in supporting project execution by fostering strong supplier relationships, negotiating competitive contracts, analyzing market conditions, and evaluating supplier performance to meet organizational needs effectively.

Key Responsibilities

• Build a strong understanding of the category, strategic business direction, and requirements while setting clear priorities.
• Stay updated on market trends and share relevant insights across the global network.
• Utilize advanced analytics, tools, and methods to develop and continuously refine the category’s commercial strategy.
• Collaborate with suppliers and Hanwha Ocean’s global technology teams to create a roadmap for future business requirements and technological advancements.
• Engage with technical, legal, tax, risk, and security experts to shape and strengthen the category strategy.
• Establish trust and build long-lasting relationships with internal business partners to drive strategy development and implementation.
• Develop and negotiate global frame agreements aligned with Hanwha Ocean’s business plans and objectives.
• Assess suppliers’ core competencies and competitive positioning to support strategic decisions.
• Drive supplier performance to optimize quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Lead commercial guidance and ensure effective communication across the organization.
• Identify and expand opportunities within the category for future project development.
• Act as a strategic advisor, facilitator, and mentor between Hanwha Ocean and suppliers, supporting sourcing strategy development and execution.
• Oversee key supplier interfaces to enhance Supplier Relationship Management (SRM).
• Evaluate and validate Supplier Qualification Requests (SQRs) for organizational use.
• Collaborate with the Project Procurement Manager during the WIN phase to develop and implement effective Project Procurement Strategies.
• Track and report earned savings percentages per category against estimations.
• Initiate pre‑agreements during the WIN phase to establish a competitive edge within the supplier network.
• Consolidate, share, and implement best practices and lessons learned to promote continuous improvement.
• Demonstrate Year‑Over‑Year (YOY) percentage savings compared to category estimates through Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
• Successfully implement Global Frame Agreements that align with Hanwha Ocean’s strategic objectives.

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in engineering or business, or a master’s degree is preferred.
• A minimum of 7–10 years of strategic procurement experience within the EPCI sector of the Oil & Gas industry.
• Demonstrated technical expertise in the relevant product category.
• Advanced skills in sourcing, market/product/supplier analysis, negotiation, and contract formulation.
• Excellent planning and time management abilities to manage demanding deadlines effectively.
• Strong problem‑solving capabilities with a proactive approach to challenges.
• Proven experience in building and maintaining effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Please note that we are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this role. Candidates requiring sponsorship will not be considered.

Nearest Major Market: Houston