Strategic Sourcing & Category Management Lead

Kroger; Cincinnati (OH); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Kroger is seeking a procurement professional to lead category management, negotiate complex supplier contracts, and optimize sourcing across categories. You will partner with business stakeholders to drive savings and improve cash flow while ensuring alignment with policy and governance.

5+ years in procurement and relevant degrees are preferred. The role emphasizes cross-functional collaboration, supplier management, and leadership of analysts and direct reports within a fast-paced retail

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Retail, CPG, or related disciplines.
• MBA or Master’s degree.
• CPM/CPSM, CSCP or equivalent certification.
• 5 years’ experience within the pertinent category.
• 5 years’ experience in Supply Chain or Procurement.

Responsibilities

• Category Management: define and review procurement strategy and project pipeline.
• Negotiate and execute highly complex contracts with suppliers.
• Coordinate sourcing activities and manage analysts to achieve category goals.
• Lead SRM activities to create value and drive savings.
• Manage supplier qualification and develop transition plans for supply agreements.
• Oversee procurement process metrics and actionable insights.
• Supervise and coach direct reports; provide performance feedback.

Skills

Relationship building

Communication

Strategic thinking

Negotiation

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business/Finance/Supply Chain/Manufacturing/Retail/CPG

MBA or Master’s degree

CPM/CPSM or CSCP certification

Job description

Kroger is seeking a procurement professional to lead category management, negotiate complex supplier contracts, and optimize sourcing across categories. You will partner with business stakeholders to drive savings and improve cash flow while ensuring alignment with policy and governance.

5+ years in procurement and relevant degrees are preferred. The role emphasizes cross-functional collaboration, supplier management, and leadership of analysts and direct reports within a fast-paced retail