Category Manager, Raw Materials

TAIT partners with artists, brands, IP holders and place makers to bring culture-defining, never-before-seen experiences to life. With a legacy of innovation spanning over 45 years, TAIT has grown from pioneering in rock ‘n’ roll concert staging to setting the global standard for extraordinary live events and experiences through cutting‑edge technology, precision engineering, and creative design. TAIT’s 20 global offices have developed iconic productions and experiences in over 30 countries, all seven continents, and even outer space for renowned performers, theme parks, exhibits, and venues across the globe, including partnerships with Taylor Swift, Cirque Du Soleil, Royal Opera House, Nike, NASA, Bloomberg, Google, Beyoncé, and The Olympics.

We are seeking a results‑driven Category Manager – Raw Materials to lead strategic sourcing and operational procurement for key raw materials including aluminum, steel, wood, and other substrates critical to our manufacturing processes. This role requires a strong blend of category expertise, supplier relationship management, and the ability to deliver cost savings while ensuring supply continuity. The ideal candidate will thrive in a dynamic, project‑driven environment and demonstrate the ability to balance long‑term strategy with day‑to‑day execution.

• Develop and implement category strategies for raw materials to achieve cost optimization, quality, and risk mitigation goals.
• Lead sourcing initiatives including RFQ/RFP processes, supplier selection, and contract negotiations.
• Perform market analysis and benchmarking to identify trends, opportunities, and risks in raw material supply markets.
• Conduct total cost of ownership (TCO) and should‑cost analyses to inform sourcing decisions.
• Monitor commodity indices (e.g., aluminum, steel, wood) and leverage market trends to inform sourcing decisions.

• Manage day‑to‑day purchasing of raw materials to meet production schedules and project timelines.
• Maintain accurate ERP records, assist with critical purchase orders, and ensure timely delivery of materials.
• Resolve supply issues such as shortages, delays, and quality non‑conformances.
• Support invoice resolution and collaborate with Finance for accurate coding and budget alignment.

• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships, including performance reviews and corrective action plans.
• Monitor supplier performance (OTD, quality, responsiveness) and implement improvement initiatives.
• Conduct supplier risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for critical raw materials.

• Partner with Engineering, Quality, and Production teams to align sourcing strategies with technical requirements.
• Support new product introductions (NPIs) by ensuring timely sourcing of raw materials.
• Participate in project meetings to align procurement activities with timelines and deliverables.

• Drive continuous improvement in procurement processes, tools, and systems.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, contract terms, and audit requirements.
• Assist in onboarding new suppliers and maintaining accurate supplier master data.

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business, Engineering, or related field (MBA or certifications such as CPSM/CIPS preferred).
• 5 plus years of procurement experience with a focus on raw materials in a manufacturing or project‑based environment.
• Proven success in strategic sourcing and operational buying.
• Strong understanding of raw material markets (metals, wood, composites) and cost drivers.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Epicor, Net Suite).
• Excellent negotiation, analytical, and project management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.

• Familiarity with material specifications and engineering drawings.
• Experience with global sourcing and supplier qualification processes.
• Knowledge of sustainability practices and compliance standards in raw material sourcing.
• Ability to lead cross‑functional teams and drive change initiatives.

TAIT is an equal opportunity employer fully committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran or any other protected characteristic as outlined by international, national, state, or local laws.