Manager, Global Category

Role Overview

The Global Category Manager will identify and select suppliers who consistently deliver high-quality products and services, offering the best value to Wabash and its customers. The position may focus on Direct or Indirect categories, emphasizing the development and reinforcement of supplier relationships and leadership in negotiations. You will spearhead the creation and management of global category strategies that leverage Wabash's consolidated purchasing power, optimize supplier performance, and meet technological expectations.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish and nurture critical supplier partnerships aimed at lowering total costs and enhancing product and service quality and performance.
• Lead negotiations and formalize commercial agreements with suppliers through long-term contracts and pricing arrangements.
• Identify and cultivate alternative or new suppliers to ensure an uninterrupted supply of materials and services across all facilities.
• Design and implement sustainable, value-driven category strategies for long-term success.
• Monitor current and emerging market trends influencing cost variations, sharing insights across the organization to address potential risks effectively.
• Support new product development by sourcing materials, suppliers, and innovative processes that provide a technological edge.
• Continuously evaluate and improve supplier performance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet cost, quality, and performance goals.
• Serve as a recognized expert within the category area of responsibility.
• Provide mentorship and leadership to Sourcing Specialists and peer colleagues.
• Offer onsite supplier support when necessary.
• Drive initiatives to improve material cost productivity.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree strongly preferred in Supply Chain, Accounting, Finance, Statistics, Engineering, Business, Information Technology, or Organizational Leadership.
• Master's degree is advantageous.
• Over 7 years of relevant experience in supply chain or procurement roles.
• Proficient in conflict resolution and management techniques.
• Capable of training and mentoring others in purchasing best practices and procedures.
• Experienced with software tools including Microsoft Office, ERP systems such as SAP, WebEx, Microsoft Teams, and COUPA.
• Ability to read blueprints and understand fundamental engineering documents is a plus.
• Knowledge of contract law is beneficial.

Leadership Principles

• Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion by valuing input from all perspectives and fostering transparency.
• Practice active listening to develop effective solutions and make informed decisions.
• Continual learning mindset focused on personal and professional growth.
• Authenticity demonstrated through honesty, energy, and perseverance.
• Teamwork and collaboration to achieve unified success as One Wabash.

Affirmative Action/EEO Statement

Wabash is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to fair employment practices without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, or other protected categories by applicable laws. Employment decisions are made objectively, applying policies consistently to all comparable employees.