.Associate Category LeaderWork Mode: HybridLocation: Monterrey, Nuevo LeónBASIC FUNCTIONResponsible for creating and executing sourcing strategies for assigned categories that allow Kohler Kitchen and Bath Group to win in the market while reducing supply risk and lowering total cost.
Develop intimate knowledge of assigned products, suppliers, markets, and costs to create targeted sourcing strategies that include robust supplier management, risk mitigation, and cost-saving plans.
This position will own the development of new regional sources by identifying, evaluating, and onboarding potential vendors within the assigned categories.Strong project management, communication, and leadership activity will be necessary to meet annual goals and objectives.
Personal accountability, autonomy, communication, influence, and leadership will be critical to success in this role.
This role is part of the North America Strategic Sourcing group in K&B Purchasing and will support the supply base and supplier relationships for new and development suppliers for any K&B categories.RESPONSIBILITIES & COMPETENCIESCreate clear and concise Sourcing Strategies for all assigned categories with robust Supplier Performance Plans, Risk Mitigation Plans, and Cost Saving Plans.Act as Subject Matter Expert for assigned product categories and suppliers.Participate in the new vendor strategic sourcing process, including supplier search, quotation prep, quote reviews, lead PPAP efforts, supplier/contract negotiations, supplier development, and onboarding.Maintain required records such as quotes and price lists, supplier correspondence, contracts, and supplier performance data.Lead sourcing meetings with Category Leaders, Operations, Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, and Supplier and Sourcing Leadership team.Work with Kohler capital request systems to manage capital investments.TECHNICALSAP and Power BI experience is preferred.Strong contract clause knowledge, understanding, and experience negotiating.
Ability to edit/revise a variety of standard contract templates and negotiate with suppliers to achieve the most favorable terms for Kohler Co.Advanced understanding of business law and the ability to work directly with a legal team.Lead the RFx/acquisition process to secure goods/services in the assigned area of spend to ensure competitiveness and limit risk to Kohler.Interpret data sets, identify trends, and use data as a tool to help accomplish goals and communicate.Total Cost of Ownership and Make vs. Buy calculations.Price Modeling and Forecasting using market reports and indexes to identify market trends, forecast, and model prices.PERSONAL/INTERPERSONALMaintain professional ethics, business acumen, self-accountability, and a high level of integrity always.Development of cross-functional relationships through active team roles and support, embracing diverse and global cultures.Self-starter, self-motivated, ability to work independently, and collaborate with teams