Strategic Category Leadership Director

Vizient, Inc.; Cape Girardeau (MO); Hybrid; USD 102,000 - 179,000; Full time

Job summary

Vizient, Inc. is seeking a Category Management Director to lead strategic category initiatives, drive value through sourcing and contracting, and guide cross-functional teams across clinical, operational and supplier stakeholders.

The role emphasizes analytics, AI-enabled decision making, and executive-level communications, with a hybrid work model and offices in Irving, Chicago, Cape Girardeau, and Centennial. Travel required.

Qualifications

• Degree preferred.
• 7+ years in category management, sourcing, or related field.
• Experience leading complex sourcing and category programs.
• Ability to influence executives and stakeholders.
• Experience guiding stakeholder committees and value analysis.
• Strong negotiation and contracting experience.
• Advanced analytical skills to translate data into strategy.
• Excellent executive communication and relationship skills.
• Familiar with AI tools and responsible AI use.
• Healthcare or regulated industry experience preferred.
• Hybrid role; three days in office; offices Irving TX, Chicago IL, Cape Girardeau MO, Centennial CO.
• Willingness to travel.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead comprehensive category strategies aligned with client priorities.
• Serve as primary SME and strategic advisor across sourcing, contracting, value analysis.
• Lead end-to-end sourcing including RFIs, RFPs, negotiations, contracts.
• Manage complex portfolio with cross-functional teams.
• Evaluate spend, utilization and market data to inform decisions.
• Apply AI fluency to strategy development and decision-making.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Executive communication

Analytical skills

Stakeholder management

Negotiation

AI literacy

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

AI tools

Job description

Vizient, Inc. is seeking a Category Management Director to lead strategic category initiatives, drive value through sourcing and contracting, and guide cross-functional teams across clinical, operational and supplier stakeholders.

The role emphasizes analytics, AI-enabled decision making, and executive-level communications, with a hybrid work model and offices in Irving, Chicago, Cape Girardeau, and Centennial. Travel required.