Category Manager- Energy

RESPONSIBILITIES & EXPECTATIONS: Define, design, and implement processes and tools to successfully manage Natural Gas, Power, and other energy-related Procurement. Define and implement the overall category strategy to achieve recurrent TCO (total cost of ownership) improvement and ongoing value creation, while managing service level and capacity requirements and risks. Establish close working relationships with key internal stakeholders (logistics, supply chain, manufacturing, controlling, senior management, procurement…) and supplier network. Manage a portfolio of strategic sourcing initiatives and develop relationships with strategic suppliers. Develop and implement the category management strategy, covering short, mid, and long- term priorities Lead the setup and manage supplier network around all thing’s energy, power, and natural gas. Develop strategic relationships with key suppliers and ensure progress of continuous improvement actions in order to maximize value. Organize market intelligence monitoring through relationships with internal stakeholders, suppliers and market experts; identify new technologies/solutions and evaluate their interest Identify cost reduction and productivity opportunities Develop negotiations strategies and drive strategic negotiations energy sectors. Lead contract implementation and resolve important issues Manage / Evaluate contract compliance, data management and supplier performance Ensure discipline / compliance to the agreed strategies, plans and processes Ensure smooth collaboration specifically with Operations, Supply Chain, Sourcing Managers and Analysts Perform other duties as assigned. ATTRIBUTES: Behavioral Thorough understanding of operational processes Strong relationship-building skills both within LNA and with current and future suppliers at all levels (supplier senior management) Ability to set priorities, plan & manage time and deliver short-term and long-term results Strong problem-solving skills: has proven capacity to exercise independent judgment and willingness to make critical decisions Self-starter, self-motivated and with strong initiative. High level of initiative and is pragmatic- has a strong sense of urgency in meeting business needs and call to action. Fast moving and rigorous in process and metrics management. Forward-looking action-oriented team player that works well with cross functional groups by displaying leadership skills Ability to influence Ability to understand and execute detailed processes Ability to get buy-in and commitment from internal/external stakeholders Eagerness to learn by practicing combined with potential to grow Must be capable of working long & flexible hours with the ability to travel. Technical Strategic ability to develop sourcing strategies. Analytical - ability to understand and define most critical issues and develop methodologies for collecting and analyzing relevant data Project management and coordination. Specific energy or relevant procurement knowledge/insights Strong negotiating skills Strong verbal and written reporting skills and the ability to effectively communicate at all levels, combined with excellent presentation and public speaking skills Ability to develop actionable recommendations and implementation plans Must have strong working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook and PowerPoint software. Previous SAP knowledge is a plus. Physical Demands include, but are not limited to: Must be physically able to perform work assigned. Must be physically capable of accessing all office, plant, and terminal locations if needed. While visiting customers, vendors, or suppliers, tolerate working outside in severe weather conditions as well as safe exposure to industrial high temperature, noise and dust. Access all areas within a site which could include heights of 120 feet, confined spaces, climbing ladders or stairs, and accessing tunnels. The employee may be exposed to the following working conditions: Extreme Heat and Cold, Noise, Vibration, Oils, and Atmospheric Conditions such as Dust, Fumes, and Metallic Particles. The employee will be required to perform the following actions (from time to time): Standing, walking, balancing, stooping, kneeling, reaching, talking, seeing, hearing and sitting. Able to lift up to 50 pounds. Must be able to travel up to 50% Required Experience Must have a minimum of seven–ten (7-10) years of previous procurement or supply chain experience with a proven track record of managing complex commodity categories. Required Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, Finance, Engineering or equivalent work experience in the field is highly desired. Lhoist North America offers a comprehensive benefits package including, but not limited to: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401K, and vacation. LNA also supports employee work-life balance with telecommuting and compressed workweek options for many positions. Lhoist North America is an equal-opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. The Lhoist Group is a family owned shareholding with a continuously growing global reach. We develop high quality solutions from the finest natural mineral resources. The carbonates, oxides and speciality products bring essential functionalities to our customer processes. Driven by a passion for excellence and innovation, our employees’ diverse knowledge and cultural backgrounds constitute the strength of the Lhoist Group. Do you want to know more about us? Please visit lhoist.com.