Category Manager II

Overview

At TDS Telecom, connecting people is at the heart of everything we do. We are forward thinkers who leverage cutting‑edge fiber internet technology to strengthen communities. We are dedicated to excellence, which drives us to succeed together, creating a better world through meaningful connections. Ready to make an impact?

The Category Manager II is responsible for developing sourcing strategies for assigned categories to drive cost savings and ensure informed purchasing decisions. Leads supplier request processes (RFX), Request for Information (RFI), Request for Proposal (RFP), Request for Quote (RFQ), and Request for Bid (RFB). Additionally, negotiates procurement agreements (including contractual terms and pricing) and manages stakeholder relationships to achieve savings goals.

This position is for a professional, senior level associate who works independently and leads moderately complex Category Manager activities including project management capabilities to complete Supply Chain related activities.

This position has the ability to work remotely in any of the 40+ States in which TDS Telecom operates.

• Lead cross‑functional sourcing teams; prepare and develop requests (RF – X) and scoring models; perform vendor analysis; develop service level agreements (SLA); and manage associated sourcing projects.
• Demonstrate understanding and ability to redline basic contractual terms such as Payment Terms, Purchase Orders, etc.
• Maintain thorough knowledge of products & services within category area(s) of focus, supplier's processes and industry trends and practices. Actively identify sourcing and cost savings through category, spend, financial and industry data to identify sourcing, as well as cost‑saving and reduction opportunities through analysis and risk assessment and collaboration with clients and stakeholders to meet or exceed cost saving targets.
• Negotiate mutually beneficial purchasing agreements.
• Build and maintain relationships with internal clients and key stakeholders, such as Operations, Legal, Accounting and Finance by identifying and addressing purchasing/contracting needs. Present sourcing opportunities to build internal support among clients and stakeholders.
• Establish and maintain supplier relationships. Manage supplier performance and perform supplier evaluations. Develop plans for service improvement and implement corrective actions where necessary.
• Create value‑added business process efficiencies, reduce costs, and mitigate risk throughout the supply chain sourcing lifecycle.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors degree (or higher)
  -OR- 4+ years of professional work experience.
• 6+ years of sourcing or procurement experience.

• CPSM, PMP or Six Sigma certification a plus.
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of supply chain, category management, strategic sourcing, negotiations and contracting concepts.
• Proven ability to lead teams, manage projects and achieve project goals; identify opportunities through data and financial analysis, risk assessment and process review; and negotiate purchasing agreements a plus.
• Knowledge of, and experience with, ERP (particularly SAP), Contract Management and E‑Sourcing Systems; familiarity with e‑procurement technologies.
• Knowledge of the telecommunications or wireless industry is beneficial.
• Proficient in Windows and MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Project).
• Interpersonal and customer service skills.

Do you meet the Required Qualifications but are unsure if your experience aligns with the Other Qualifications? We encourage you to apply! Research shows that many candidates hesitate to apply unless they meet 100% of the qualifications, even when they possess the skills and experience needed to succeed in the role. Experience and skills come in many forms, and they may not always match exactly what’s listed on paper, but they can still lead to success.

If you meet the Required Qualifications and believe you have the potential to thrive in this role, we encourage you to apply today!

We believe in taking care of our team, which is why we offer comprehensive benefits to support your…