Associate Category Manager

Schneider Electric has an opportunity for an Associate Category Manager in our Nashville Site for Stamping components. Aligned with Corporate Strategy, you are responsible for implementing optimal supplier terms and conditions to sustainably achieve targets for the team and the Purchasing Department, including annual productivity, quality, and delivery performance goals.

• Support the definition of the North America category strategy and lead its execution for assigned commodities. Partner with manufacturing sites, clusters, cross‑functional stakeholders, and Procurement to maintain a Best‑in‑Class supplier panel aligned with current and future business needs.
• Ensure optimal Quality, Cost, and Delivery performance for stamping components, including management of tier‑2 materials.
• Develop and execute commodity strategies across 20+ North American sites.
• Lead business risk assessments; financial risk, capacity constraints, long lead times and develop mitigation strategies.
• Maintain deep knowledge of the category and market trends to serve as a subject matter expert.
• Act as Supplier Leader: manage commercial relationships, conduct Business Reviews, lead annual negotiations, oversee escalations, and drive sustainable development within the supply base.
• Identify opportunities and build a pipeline to support QVE, supplier changes, and supply base optimization initiatives.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams on Procurement initiatives including audits, tools, and process improvements.
• Drive TCO reductions and value enhancements to support cost savings and performance improvement.
• Track KPIs and prepare reports.
• Manage comprehensive RFQ processes and provide timely support to functional stakeholders.
• Identify and develop strategic suppliers.
• Lead sourcing, standardization, spend management, and supplier-driven innovation.
• Contribute to purchasing databases and tools by providing accurate, updated information.
• Serve as the first escalation point for supplier crisis management.
• Communicate supplier strategies internally.

You will report to:
Regional Category Manager

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or Mechanical/Industrial/Electronics Engineering is required.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in Procurement, Purchasing, or Supply Chain.
• Strong digital acumen and proficiency with online tools and applications.
• Project Management experience preferred.
• Proven success in supplier negotiations.
• Knowledge of legal contracts and risk management desired.
• Open‑minded, results‑oriented, and proactive.
• Strong leadership and influencing skills.
• Ability to work both independently and in cross‑functional teams.
• Comfortable working under pressure.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• High cross‑cultural awareness.

We know skills and competencies show up in many ways and can be based on your life experience. If you do not necessarily meet all the requirements that are listed, we still encourage you to apply for the position.

Schneider Electric offers a robust benefits package to support our employees such as flexible work arrangements, paid family leave, 401(k)+ match, and more.

You must submit an online application to be considered for any position with us. This position will be posted until filled. Let us learn about you! Apply today.

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