Category Manager

About the Role: The Category Manager / Specialist owns the end-to-end commercial and sourcing strategy for an assigned portfolio of product lines — blending supplier relationship management, product development, and sales and margin growth accountability. You will drive growth through strategic supplier partnerships, price negotiation, new product introductions, and disciplined execution of pricing, quality, and data integrity in SAP, all in close collaboration with internal stakeholders. What You'll Do: Develop and execute long-term product and portfolio strategy that positions Aerovac as a leading partner in the global composites industry. Manage strategic supplier relationships — negotiating pricing, inventory positions, and freight strategies, and developing rebate and consignment programs. Act as Project Manager for new product development, increasing the pace and success of new product introductions. Maintain pricing, sourcing, and data integrity in SAP, including Product Requirement Specifications (PRS) and Purchasing Info Records (PIRs). Research global market trends and competitive activity to uncover growth opportunities and mitigate risk. Partner cross-functionally with Sales, Operations, Finance, and Product teams to align category strategy with business goals. Represent Aerovac at industry trade shows and events. Key Attributes: Strategic thinking and plan implementation - ability to develop and implement mid to long term strategic plans that create sustainable successful outcomes. Such as supply reliability, financial success, and strong partnerships. Ability to influence others - ability to build strong relationships based on trust and mutual respect that drive the implementation of win / win situations with our suppliers, customers and internal stakeholders. And using these relationships to influence the outcomes we desire. Ability to be successful in a fast paced, demanding environment often with multiple competing priorities. Data driven commercial acumen - Ability to use internal and external data to drive decision making and strategic direction. Examples include using this data to negotiate from a position of knowledge, influence internal and external stakeholders, etc. What You Bring: 5+ years of experience in procurement, sales, business management, category management, product management, or strategic sourcing. Bachelor's degree (business, marketing, or engineering preferred); equivalent experience considered. Proficiency in Microsoft Office; working knowledge of SAP required. Strong communication, influence, and organizational skills in a fast-paced, global environment. A self-starter mindset with a drive to innovate. Business English language. SAP experience at a category/PIR management level (Preferred) Composites industry background (Preferred) Travel: Up to 75% of the time Remote work with required travel to the following sites: Rock Hill, SC Lakeland, FL Osceola, IN Shift is Monday - Friday, 8AM-5PM Ready to shape category strategy and make an impact on a global scale? We would love to hear from you! Benefits: 401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Flexible spending account Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid parental leave Paid time off Vision insurance Location: Rock Hill, SC 29730 (Required) Willingness to travel: 75% (Required) Work Location: Hybrid remote in Rock Hill, SC 29730

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