Director Category Management

Soni’s client, a leading organization with significant national operations, is seeking an experienced Director of Category Management to lead and optimize enterprise-wide procurement strategy across approximately $800M in spend. This is a highly visible leadership role within a complex, fast-paced environment where strategic sourcing, supplier partnership, and executive collaboration are critical to business success.

Reporting to senior leadership, the Director of Category Management will shape and execute category strategies across direct, indirect, and labor spend. This individual will be responsible for driving value creation through advanced analytics, strategic negotiations, supplier performance management, and process improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate brings deep procurement expertise, strong leadership capabilities, and the ability to influence stakeholders at the VP and GM level.

• Lead enterprise category strategy across approximately $800M in spend, driving cost optimization and operational excellence
• Oversee direct, indirect, and labor cost categories, including materials such as hardscapes, fertilizers, and chemicals
• Develop and execute strategic sourcing initiatives, contract negotiations, and supplier agreements
• Utilize spend analytics tools (spend cube, spend tree) to classify spend and identify savings opportunities
• Establish and monitor KPIs, delivering comprehensive reporting and insights to executive leadership
• Lead quarterly business reviews (QBRs) with key suppliers to ensure performance, compliance, and partnership alignment
• Collaborate cross-functionally with VPs, GMs, Finance, and Operations to align procurement strategy with business objectives
• Drive process improvement initiatives focused on cost reduction, cost avoidance, and program standardization
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of category managers

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field
• 10+ years of procurement or supply chain experience, including 5+ years in category management leadership
• Experience managing both direct and indirect spend categories
• Background in manufacturing, logistics, or supply chain-driven environments
• Strong expertise in spend classification, analytics, and sourcing strategy
• Proven success in strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, and supplier relationship management
• Process improvement mindset with a strong focus on operational efficiency and measurable results

• Experience operating within large-scale spend environments ($200M–$300M+ preferred)
• Master’s degree or certifications such as CPSM or PMP preferred

$132,000 – $141,000 + 20% Bonus

(Compensation may flex up to $150,000 – $160,000 based on experience.)

Compensation is based on a range of factors that include relevant experience, knowledge, skills, and other job-related qualifications.

Please apply for immediate consideration!