Strategic Maintenance Category Buyer: Drive Savings

Category Buyer - Maintenance

The Category Buyer supports South Region Vallourec facilities by strategically sourcing repairs (on-site and off-site), spare parts, calibration services, equipment leases, facility management, and working clothes. This role ensures both immediate operational needs and long-term business requirements are met.

You will drive optimal sourcing outcomes across cost, quality, delivery, and service performance while operating under the most favorable economic conditions and in full alignment with Company and Corporate Purchasing policies and procedures.

• Lead supplier selection, supplier awards, competitive pricing analysis, and commercial negotiations aligned to sourcing strategies and business priorities.
• Develop and execute negotiation strategies to secure optimal commercial terms.
• Prepare, analyze, and evaluate RFQs and commercial offers; provide clear sourcing recommendations.
• Challenge business demand by validating requirements, specifications, and volumes to optimize spend and scope.
• Drive productivity initiatives and value-driven sourcing decisions.
• Develop, implement, and maintain commodity strategies with cross‑functional stakeholders.
• Lead sourcing initiatives to deliver cost savings, mitigate risks, and enhance competitiveness.
• Consolidate regional and North American demand to leverage economies of scale.
• Perform cost analysis (including make‑or‑buy decisions) and recommend value improvements.
• Manage supplier lifecycle: market analysis, qualification, performance management, and continuous improvement.
• Monitor market trends to identify risks, opportunities, and innovation.
• Manage contracts end‑to‑end (drafting, negotiation, execution, compliance).
• Maintain strong internal and external stakeholder relationships.
• Represent sourcing on cross‑functional projects and initiatives.
• Ensure full compliance with EHS standards, ethical sourcing, and company policies.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in STEM or Business (or 10+ years of relevant experience in lieu of degree).
• 35 years of sourcing or purchasing experience in a corporate environment.
• Strong knowledge of strategic sourcing, negotiations, contract management, and supplier performance management.
• Experience sourcing industrial services/materials (repairs, spare parts, calibration preferred).
• Proficiency with ERP systems (SAP preferred) and Microsoft Office tools.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a matrixed environment.
• Proven ability to influence stakeholders without direct authority.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Effective communication and reporting skills.
• Commitment to compliance, ethics, and continuous improvement.

• Communicate clearly and effectively.
• Collaborate and contribute to team success.
• Adapt quickly with a proactive mindset.
• Take accountability and initiative.
• Demonstrate reliability and attention to detail.
• Prioritize safety in every action.
• Embrace feedback and continuous learning.
• Drive improvement and challenge the status quo.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage.
• Company‑paid Life Insurance & Short/Long‑Term Disability.
• 401(k) with 4.5% company match (no vesting period).
• Paid Parental Leave (including adoption).
• 10 paid holidays + 1 floating day.
• Paid vacation time.
• Performance‑based bonus program.
• Tuition reimbursement.

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.