Sourcing and Category Manager

Are you a results-driven professional with a passion for performance marketing and strategic sourcing? We are seeking a talented Sourcing and Category Manager to leverage category-specific expertise in collaboration with business stakeholders to define impactful category strategies, optimize our supplier base, and manage sourcing events. Your efforts will contribute to achieving savings targets while meeting business needs, all while upholding our core values of respect, honesty, integrity, diversity, inclusion, and safety.

Key Responsibilities:

Category Management

• Support senior management in refining and reviewing our procurement strategy and project pipeline.
• Conduct financial reviews to assess category performance alongside senior management.
• Identify potential suppliers to extend payment terms, enhance cash flow, and improve gross margin.
• Implement supplier finance and discount programs to focus on cash flow and working capital enhancement.

Strategic Sourcing

• Coordinate sourcing activities and manage teams to meet category goals effectively.
• Regularly review and update sourcing strategies and associated documentation.
• Assist in the creation, execution, and communication of category management strategies.
• Drive compliance with procurement policies, procedures, and strategies.

Contract Management

• Lead negotiations and the execution of complex contracts with suppliers.
• Identify improvement opportunities and develop risk mitigation strategies.

Supplier Relationship Management

• Execute Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) initiatives to create value and promote continuous improvement.
• Develop long-term business relationships with suppliers to foster collaboration and savings realization.
• Oversee supplier qualification processes and manage transitions effectively.

Procurement Process Oversight

• Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with business partners, ensuring procurement is seen as a valued ally in decision-making.
• Monitor procurement metrics and insights, defining action plans for implementation.
• Stay informed on Kroger initiatives that may impact category performance.

Talent Management

• Supervise and coach team members, providing consistent feedback and conducting performance reviews.
• Create a collaborative work environment with clear objectives and recognition of achievements.
• Comply with essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Qualifications:

Minimum:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Retail, CPG, or related fields.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in a relevant category.
• Proven ability to build impactful relationships with internal clients and key stakeholders.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Visio).
• Strong oral and written communication skills for effective strategy formulation in complex environments.

Preferred:

• MBA or advanced degree.
• Professional certifications such as CPM/CPSM or CSCP.
• 5 years of experience in Supply Chain or Procurement.
• 3 years of experience in leading a sourcing team.