Associate category manager Jobs in Atlanta, GA

WestRock (NYSE : WRK) is a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging solutions. We are materials scientists, packaging designers, mechanical engineers and manufacturing experts with a shared purpose : Innovate Boldly. Package Sustainably. Guided by our values of integrity, respect, accountability and excellence, we use leading science and technology to more fiber-based packaging forward. WestRock’s 50,000 team members support customers around the world from more than 320 operating and business locations spanning North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Learn more at [1]

Position Overview :

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Construction Services Category Manager to join our team. As the Category Manager, you will be responsible for managing the sourcing and category management processes related to all construction services used in our manufacturing and operations, which include pulp and paper mills, corrugated and consumer box plants in the United States and Canada.. Your expertise will drive efficiency, cost savings, and supplier performance.

Key Responsibilities

Category Strategy : Develop and implement comprehensive category strategies national, regional and local strategies to source, procure and manage civil, mechanical, electrical and other construction crafts as required to support operational and project needs. Collaborate closely with key stakeholders, including operations and engineering leadership, to align category strategies with business objectives and project requirements.

Category Standards : Define category standards for first-fit capital purchases and retrofits, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, and collaborating with engineering teams to integrate the latest technologies and best practices.

Cost Reduction : Identify opportunities to reduce operational costs within the category through process optimization, negotiation, and supplier collaboration. Work closely with operations leadership to understand their needs and challenges, finding innovative solutions to enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Supplier Relationship Management : Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, conducting regular performance reviews, and driving continuous improvement efforts. Collaborate with project procurement teams to select suppliers that align with project-specific requirements and timelines.

Cost Savings : Develop and execute initiatives to achieve cost savings targets within the category, tracking and reporting progress to senior management. Collaborate with project procurement teams to leverage economies of scale and negotiate favorable terms for large-scale project procurements.

Market Analysis : Stay informed about industry trends, market conditions, and emerging technologies related to manufacturing equipment, incorporating findings into category strategies. Share market insights with engineering and operations leadership to inform project planning and decision-making.

Contract Management : Negotiate and manage contracts with suppliers, ensuring favorable terms and conditions for the company. Collaborate with project procurement teams to align contract terms with project requirements and timelines.

Risk Mitigation : Proactively identify and mitigate potential risks within the category, ensuring business continuity and compliance with relevant regulations. Work closely with project procurement teams to assess and manage project-related risks, ensuring timely and cost-effective project execution.

Qualifications :

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Project Management, Engineering, or a related field; MBA or advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in category management, procurement, or supply chain management.
• Demonstrated experience in managing complex manufacturing equipment categories, with a preference given to those support industries with minimal competition amongst key suppliers supporting the industry.
• Strong negotiation skills and the ability to build and maintain effective supplier relationships.
• Knowledge of developing Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) models with proven track record of achieving cost savings and process improvements.
• Excellent leadership and team management capabilities.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to use data-driven insights to make informed decisions.
• Effective communication and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in procurement software and tools.
• Ability to travel internationally up to 25%.

Preferred Qualifications :

WestRock Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating and maintaining a diverse workforce : Minorities / Females / Disabled / Veterans.