Category Lead

• Develop and execute category-based supply strategies for critical products, driving sourcing, supplier selection, contract negotiation, and long-term supply continuity. • Manage the full procurement lifecycle, including demand planning, competitive sourcing (RFI/RFQ/RFP), order management, inventory optimization, and risk mitigation. • Lead supplier relationship and performance management through KPIs, scorecards, continuous improvement initiatives, and strategic partnerships. • Negotiate, execute, and administer complex supply agreements to achieve commercial, operational, and business objectives. • Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to support program, production, inventory, and customer delivery requirements. • Identify, evaluate, qualify, and onboard new suppliers, including capability assessments and site visits as required. • Leverage ERP/MRP systems to optimize material planning, inventory levels, distribution, and supply chain performance. • Ensure compliance with supply chain policies, governance, and contract approval processes; prepare procurement metrics and KPI reporting. • Manage supplier returns, repairs, and material disposition activities to maintain supply continuity. • Mentor and support junior team members in category management, strategic sourcing, contract management, and supplier performance best practices.

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field with 7+ years of progressive supply chain, procurement, or category management experience; equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered. • Professional supply chain certification preferred (e.g., SCMP, CPSM, CPIM, P.Log). • Demonstrated experience in strategic sourcing, competitive procurement, supplier relationship management, contract negotiation and administration, purchase order management, and vendor performance management. • Experience operating within complex manufacturing, engineering, or technical environments, including Lean, ISO, JIT, and ERP/MRP systems (Epicor experience is an asset). • Strong knowledge of supply chain operations, logistics, inventory management, cost analysis, domestic and international sourcing, and quality management principles. • Excellent planning, analytical, problem-solving, decision-making, communication, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to interpret technical documentation. • Highly detail-oriented, collaborative, and proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Project. • Marine industry experience is considered an asset.