Senior Specialist, Category Management; R&D Services

Senior Specialist, Category Management executes sub-category procurement strategy as part of the larger category management team, reporting to Category Managers and Directors. Contributes to end-to-end procurement including contracting and supplier relationship management, ensuring activities comply with defined processes and broader category strategy. Enables execution of procurement projects and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Partner with Category Directors and Associate Directors to execute subcategory-specific procurement strategies.
• Implement and monitor effectiveness of strategies; ensure alignment with business goals.
• Report on supplier process/operational health to inform strategic decision-making (industry trends, emerging technologies, market dynamics).
• Monitor initiatives to drive value with suppliers; track cost savings and enhance procurement value.
• Enable sustainability and ESG measures with suppliers to enhance sustainable sourcing.
• Execute Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) strategies; manage relationships and develop creative solutions for long-term needs.
• Implement mitigation strategies to proactively manage procurement risk while maintaining compliance.
• Manage projects from initiation to completion with cross-functional teams; support process optimization and continuous improvement.
• Support end-to-end procurement from sourcing strategy to contract negotiation/execution (analysis and data for negotiations).
• Develop capabilities and category expertise; support team goals and performance targets.

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Mgmt, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum 5 years in procurement, supply chain, or related business/operations.
• Experience in category management, contract negotiation, and supplier relationship management.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Power Platform).
• Fast learner across industries; strong cross-functional collaboration.
• Strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence.
• Strong executive functioning and autonomous work ethic.

• Paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick); medical/dental/vision insurance; 401(k) (eligible employees).
• Short-term incentive program eligible.