Global Category Manager, Direct Materials

Reporting to the Director/Head of Global Procurement, this position will manage Direct Materials spend across the Velcro Companies global business sites and also help drive develop and execute key programs.

The manager will be responsible for all aspects of category management for these strategic and complex purchases with an annual spend of ~ $40 - $60 million. Packaging includes several sub-categories with diverse specifications across multiple business units and represents a significant opportunity for cost reductions, strategy development, and process improvements under a centrally managed program.

• The manager will lead all sourcing, contract and price negotiations, supplier management, reporting (savings, compliance, and other KPIs), and supplier value added/value engineered activities.
• This person will have global responsibility for driving competitive category strategies to achieve lowest total cost and reduce working capital via negotiation planning and execution, high growth region sourcing, value engineering and/or sole source elimination.
• Will manage supplier performance to support categories, stay up to date on current and forecasted market conditions, and ensure supply continuity for the business.
• Will be responsible for managing several projects in a dynamic environment.
• Will ensure compliance with company business policies and procedures, including but not limited to export and import regulations.
• The role will also lead key procurement transformation initiatives such as risk management, supplier relationship management, supplier diversity and sustainability across all Velcro's spend.
• Candidate will have a strong understanding of project management activities, including the end-to-end project management process in a fast paced, complex business environment.
• You will work within a team of collaborative colleagues, working on high-impact projects that move the business forward.
• You will help your team meet deadlines, track, monitor and summarize progress of projects, and prepare reports for senior leadership regarding the status and project of the project.
• The person must understand the technical requirements of the diverse business units to provide a world-class level of support to business units that are internal customers, while delivering maximum savings.
• Individual should challenge the status quo and look creatively for savings opportunities throughout the categories managed.
• You must be able to indirectly lead teams and drive toward consensus and compliance.
• The category manager position requires an experienced professional with technical expertise and very good interpersonal skills to work with both internal and external stakeholders. He/she must be a change agent within the Global Procurement organization.

Key Responsibilities:

• Category Strategy Development: Develop and execute comprehensive category strategies for direct materials that align with the company's overall objectives and contribute to cost savings, quality improvement, and supply chain resilience.

• Supplier Relationship Management (SRM): Build and maintain strategic relationships with key suppliers to ensure alignment with business goals, drive innovation, and mitigate risks. Lead regular supplier performance reviews and collaborate cross-functionally to address any issues or opportunities.

• Risk Management: Identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with direct material suppliers, including geopolitical, financial, operational, and environmental risks. Develop contingency plans to ensure continuity of supply in the event of disruptions.

• Supplier Diversity: Champion supplier diversity initiatives by identifying opportunities to engage diverse suppliers, promoting inclusion in the supply chain, and tracking progress towards diversity goals. Collaborate with internal stakeholders to integrate supplier diversity considerations into sourcing decisions.

• Sourcing and Contracting: Lead the end-to-end sourcing process for direct materials, including supplier identification, RFx development, negotiation, and contract management. Drive cost-saving initiatives while maintaining quality and compliance with regulatory requirements.

• Market Analysis: Conduct market research and analysis to identify emerging trends, pricing dynamics, and potential supply chain risks. Use insights to inform decision-making and adapt category strategies accordingly. Continuous Improvement: Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the direct materials category, leveraging data analytics and performance metrics to identify opportunities for optimization, standardization, and efficiency gains.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• The position requires a Bachelor's or Master's degree in a business related field (business, finance, supply chain) or engineering; Master's Degree Preferred

• A minimum of 8 years of experience in a Procurement role or Strategic Sourcing, with a focus on Direct Materials (Raw Materials, Contract Manufacturing)

• Proven Track Record for Developing and Executing Category Strategies that drive value and mitigate risk.

• Strong analytical and project management skills are required, along with excellent communication skills and leadership through influence, with the ability to collaborate effectively across functions and geographies.

• Strong negotiation skills and ability to influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization.

• Experience in supplier relationship management, including conducting supplier performance reviews and resolving conflicts.

• Familiarity with supplier diversity programs and best practices.

• Certification in procurement (e.g., CSCP, CPM, CPSM) is a plus.

PERKS OF BEING PART OF OUR TEAM:

At Velcro USA Inc., we truly value our employees. We strive to support each and every employee by providing a safe and healthy work environment, challenging and rewarding careers, and opportunities for professional and personal growth. Velcro USA Inc. offers competitive pay, a comprehensive benefits package, and generous time-off designed to meet the needs of our workforce. Advancement and growth opportunities are offered and encouraged to all employees.

Health and Welfare Benefits:

Medical and Prescription Coverage (HSA and HRA Options)

Dental Coverage

Vision Coverage

Flexible Spending Accounts

Award WinningWellness and Incentive Program

Life Insurance

Short- and Long-Term Disability

Business Travel Accident Insurance

Voluntary Accident & Critical Illness Insurance

EAP (Employee Assistance Program)

Retirement Savings Plan

401(k) Saving Planwith generous 5.5% Company match and Immediate Vesting

Time-Off Benefits

Paid Vacation Time

Paid Sick Time

Paid Parental Leave

13 Paid Company Holidays

Other Benefits and Programs

Tuition Reimbursement Program

Financial Wellness Benefit - Smart Dollar

Employee Recognition Programs

Employee Resource Groups

Charitable or Educational Matching Gift Program

Employee Referral Bonus Program

Velcro Companies provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.