Senior Category Manager

TPI Global Solutions; Plano (TX); On-site; USD 130,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

TPI Global Solutions in Plano, TX is seeking an experienced Senior Category Strategist/Lead Category Manager for a 12-month engagement (W2). The role focuses on strategic sourcing, supplier relationships, and cost optimization across multiple procurement categories.

The ideal candidate has 5–8 years in strategic sourcing and procurement, with hands-on experience in RFP/RFQ, negotiations, and P2P platforms like Coupa or SAP Ariba. On-site work during standard business hours is required.

Qualifications

• 5–8 years of senior-level experience in strategic sourcing and procurement.
• Experience managing indirect procurement and supplier relationships.
• Proven ability to lead RFP/RFQ processes and complex negotiations.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end strategic sourcing activities including RFP/RFQ development and contract execution.
• Develop and implement category strategies aligned with business goals and cost-reduction targets.
• Manage multiple procurement categories (IT, Facilities, Marketing, Travel, Professional Services).
• Analyze spend, market trends and supplier pricing to identify savings opportunities.
• Negotiate complex contracts and oversee supplier performance and risk mitigation.
• Collaborate with stakeholders and senior leadership to align sourcing with business needs.
• Oversee contract lifecycle management and continuous process improvements.
• Prepare reports and dashboards highlighting savings and strategic initiatives.

Skills

Strategic Sourcing

Category Management

Strategic Procurement

RFP/RFQ processes

Tools

Coupa

SAP Ariba

Job description

Shift: Normal Working Business Hours (Mon - Fri 8AM - 5PM CST)

Duration: 12 months with possible extension

W2 Only

Skills: Strategic Sourcing, Category Management or or Strategic Procurement. Coupa, SAP Ariba, or other Procure-to-Pay (P2P)

Job Overview

We are looking for an experienced Senior Category Strategist / Lead Category Manager to join our financial services client. The ideal candidate will have strong experience in strategic sourcing, indirect procurement, supplier relationship management, and complex contract negotiations.

The individual will be responsible for developing and executing category strategies, leading sourcing initiatives, managing supplier relationships, and identifying opportunities for cost savings and business value across multiple procurement categories.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end strategic sourcing activities, including RFP/RFQ development, supplier evaluation, competitive bidding, negotiations, and contract execution.
• Develop and implement category strategies aligned with business objectives and cost-reduction goals.
• Manage multiple procurement categories, including IT, Facilities, Marketing, Travel, and Professional Services.
• Analyze spend data, market trends, supplier pricing, and financial metrics to identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Negotiate complex, high-value commercial contracts and manage supplier performance.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and senior leadership to align sourcing strategies with business requirements.
• Oversee contract lifecycle management, supplier risk mitigation, and continuous process improvements.
• Prepare reports, dashboards, and presentations highlighting sourcing performance, savings, and strategic initiatives.

Required Qualifications

• Strong experience in Strategic Sourcing, Category Management, or Strategic Procurement.
• Hands-on experience with services procurement, preferably indirect procurement.
• Experience managing end-to-end RFP/RFQ processes and supplier selection.
• Strong analytical, financial, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Experience managing supplier relationships and collaborating with cross-functional stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Coupa, SAP Ariba, or other Procure-to-Pay (P2P) platforms.
• Project management and category management experience.
• Experience in financial services or large enterprise environments.

Experience: 5-8 years preferred for the senior-level position