New 
Category Manager I - Operations - West Fargo, ND
 Midco | |
 United States, North Dakota, West Fargo | |
 Aug 26, 2025 | |
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Job Summary:
As a Category Manager I -Operations, you will be responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies that optimize cost, quality, and supplier performance across assigned product and service categories. This role plays a critical part in aligning procurement activities with Midco's operational and financial goals by managing supplier relationships, negotiating contracts, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. Responsibilities: * Partner with leadership and cross-functional teams, including engineering, finance, operations, and logistics to develop and execute procurement strategies that align with Midco's business goals. * Identify, evaluate, and manage suppliers for assigned categories, ensuring quality, cost-effectiveness, and reliability. * Build and maintain strong supplier relationships to support performance, innovation, and long-term value creation. * Lead or support sourcing activities such as RFPs, RFQs, and contract negotiations to secure favorable terms and mitigate risk. * Monitor market trends, emerging technologies, and pricing dynamics to inform category strategies and drive competitive advantage. * Partner with internal stakeholders to support and guide new product development initiatives, ensuring alignment with business goals and customer needs. * Ensure all products and services comply with applicable local, state, and federal regulations, as well as environmental and safety standards. * Coordinate with vendors and internal teams to oversee the full lifecycle of parts and components, from procurement through end-of-life planning, to maintain product integrity and availability. * Drive cost savings through supplier negotiations, alternative sourcing, process improvements, and demand management. * Collaborate with internal stakeholders to forecast demand, manage inventory levels, and align procurement with project timelines. * Track and report on supplier performance using KPIs; implement corrective actions as needed to address issues related to quality, delivery, or cost. * Administer supplier warranty programs and manage return material processes, ensuring timely resolution and compliance with contractual obligations. * Utilize procurement systems and tools to manage contracts, purchase orders, and supplier data efficiently. * Support capital planning and budgeting processes by providing category insights and cost projections. * Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and support digital transformation within the procurement function. * Provide mentorship to team members or analysts, fostering skill development and knowledge sharing. * Model Midco's mission, vision, values, ethos, and Leadership Success Drivers, and inspire others to do the same. * Ensure customer privacy by adhering to Midco's privacy guidelines while actively following Midco policies and procedures. * Maintain regular attendance as required by your position. * Perform other duties as assigned. Note: Management reserves the right to assign or reassign functions and responsibilities to this job description at any time. Required Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in business administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field or equivalent work experience * Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills. * Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite. Preferred Qualifications: * Exposure to contract negotiation or supplier performance tracking. * Experience in the telecommunications or technology industry. * Certification in supply chain or procurement (e.g., CPIM, CSCP). * Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, D365). Work Environment: * The noise level in the work environment is moderate to loud. * Required to periodically travel to other Midco locations, supplier locations, and trade and industry shows. * May be required to work in excess of 40 hours per week and other than normal business hours, such as holidays, evenings, and weekends as business demands. Physical Demands: * May be occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, stoop, kneel, or crouch. * May be required to remain in a seated position for extended periods. * Heavy keyboard/mouse usage required with repetitive movements. Mental Demands: * Maintain accuracy and attention to detail in records, reporting, and compliance. * Manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a structured, efficient manner. * Identify problems, analyze causes, and implement practical solutions. * Communicate clearly with teams, vendors, and stakeholders. * Support collaboration and guide others through change and challenges. * Adapt quickly to shifting priorities and operational needs. * Make sound decisions and escalate issues when necessary. * Stay focused and organized to ensure timely, accurate task completion | |