Procurement Category Manager 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.
- What You BringYou'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 communication, relationship-building, and influencing skills.
- Proficiency with ERP systems, procurement software, and Microsoft Office applications.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Experience supporting construction, industrial, manufacturing, energy, or specialty contracting organizations preferred.
- Professional certifications such as CPSM, CPM, CPIM, or CSCP preferred.
- Experience with supplier scorecards, category planning, and strategic sourcing programs preferred.
- Knowledge of inventory management, forecasting, and procurement best practices preferred.
- Experience leading continuous improvement and cost-reduction initiatives preferred.
Pay Range: $120,000.00 - $135,000.00 per year
As a full-time employee at KE, you'll have access to a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, wellbeing, and future.100% employer-paid health and dental coverage for employeesHSA contributions to support your medical expenses Company-paid life insurance and disability coverage 401(k) with competitive company match Performance-based incentives Paid weekly with competitive wagesPTO, six paid holidays, and education reimbursement Exclusive employee discounts through Working Advantage The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be provided for individuals with disabilities. Primarily office-based work with extended periods sitting and working on a computer. Ability to communicate effectively in meetings, presentations, and negotiations. Ability to occasionally lift procurement samples or materials up to 25 pounds. Ability to travel to supplier locations, offices, warehouses, and job sites as needed. Up to 15-25% travel for supplier visits, company locations, industry events, and business meetings. Fast-paced, collaborative environment supporting multiple divisions and projects. Frequent interaction with internal stakeholders, suppliers, and external partners. Combination of independent work, strategic planning, and cross-functional collaboration. Knobelsdorff (KE) is an EEO to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, citizenship, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.
