Procurement Category Manager
Knobelsdorff (KE)Company Description Working at Knobelsdorff (KE) Along with building state-of-the-art projects, we build meaningful careers, lasting opportunities, and teams of dedicated individuals who truly own their work. As a leading turnkey specialty contractor specializing in Automation, Electric, Energy, and Power Services, our team tackles challenging, cutting-edge projects that provide opportunities to build new skills, confidence, and gain valuable hands-on experience in a variety of different industries. We tackle industrial electrical installations, advanced automation systems, and renewable energy solutions. Since our founding as a family-owned company in 1988, we've grown while staying true to our core value. Starting your career with KE means joining a culture that values your contributions, moves quickly, takes calculated risks, and celebrates team members who step up and own their work. If you're ready to join a team where your voice matters, your growth is supported, and your impact is celebrated, KE is the place for you. Job Description This role supports KE's Supply Chain and Operations teams by developing and executing procurement strategies that drive value across materials, equipment, services, and operational purchasing. You'll be responsible for strategic sourcing, supplier management, contract negotiations, and purchase order oversight that directly impact project execution, operational efficiency, and company profitability. Success in this role means delivering measurable cost savings, strengthening supplier partnerships, reducing supply chain risk, and ensuring our teams have the resources they need to succeed, all while upholding KE's commitment to Safety, People, Passion, and Performance. If you're someone who takes pride in building relationships, solving problems, and finding smarter ways to support a growing business, this position is built for you. What You'll Do Develop and execute category strategies for assigned areas of spend, including materials, equipment, services, and operational purchasing. Process, review, and manage purchase orders to ensure accuracy, proper approvals, timely placement, and alignment with project and operational requirements. Lead supplier sourcing, evaluation, negotiation, and selection processes. Negotiate pricing, terms, rebate programs, and service agreements to maximize value and reduce costs. Build and manage strategic supplier relationships while monitoring supplier performance. Partner with project teams and operational leaders to understand demand forecasts and procurement requirements. Identify opportunities for standardization, consolidation, and process improvements across procurement activities. Monitor market trends, commodity pricing, and supply chain risks to proactively support business needs. Collaborate with Finance and Operations to track savings initiatives, purchasing metrics, and procurement performance. Support preferred vendor programs and ensure compliance with procurement policies and procedures. Analyze spend data and develop recommendations that improve purchasing decisions and operational efficiency. Resolve purchase order discrepancies, invoice issues, and supplier concerns to maintain continuity of supply and accurate financial records. Up to 15-25% travel for supplier visits, company locations, industry events, and business meetings. Qualifications What You Bring You're someone who shows up ready to work hard, think strategically, and contribute to a team that takes pride in doing things right. Successful candidates typically bring: Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations, Finance, or a related field. 5+ years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, category management, or supply chain management. Experience negotiating contracts and managing supplier relationships. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Experience developing sourcing strategies and leading competitive bid processes. Excellent communicatio…