Category Manager

Wahl Clipper Corporation, a global manufacturer of branded Consumer and Professional products, has an exciting opportunity for a team-oriented individual to fill the role of Category Manager at our headquarters in Sterling, Illinois.

The Category Manager will be responsible for supplier management, supplier sourcing and category management duties within assigned categories of spend. This position manages both value and risk within the supply base, and ensures that supplier pricing, processes and quality meet or exceed business requirements. This position reports to the Director of NA Sourcing. There are no direct reports to this position.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Develop and implement effective sourcing strategies of assigned categories through analysis.
• Regularly perform detailed analysis (exchange rates, trade compliance, industry capacity, price trending data) and other relevant information for assigned categories.
• Provide appropriate and timely visuals.
• Develop, communicate and implement short & long-term category strategies to lower total cost of ownership and mitigate risk to the company.
• Develop and manage a cost savings project pipeline that will deliver YOY savings to the company.
• Lead cross-functional global sourcing projects including new supplier development, new material trials and other related to assigned categories.
• Provide alternate materials/supplier recommendations, which may bring competitive advantage or enhanced risk management to the company.
• Work closely with stakeholders to develop new trial and approval processes.
• Develop and publish reports/dashboards relative to assigned categories (management team, finance, other).
• Effectively manage supplier selection process to meet category strategy, quality, service, cost, risk mitigation and supplier performance goals.
• Collaborate with multiple departments to address performance, quality and other issues with suppliers within assigned categories.
• Manage supplier root cause and corrective action process.
• Manage new product development within assigned categories.
• Collaborate and communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders to ensure all expectations are met for product launch.
• Develop and manage product transitions that effect inventories.
• Be pro-active in managing possible obsolescence and develop disposition plans in collaboration with all internal stakeholders.
• Liaise with suppliers to ensure stability within the supply chain and product availability at all times.
• Proactively communicate potential supply disruptions and contingency plans.
• Work closely with Compliance department to ensure all suppliers within assigned categories are compliant.
• Performs all other duties as assigned by Supervisor.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's degree in business, supply chain operations, finance or other related to business requirements.
• Minimum 3-5 years strategic category management/purchasing experience.
• Minimum 3-5 years of supplier management experience.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing, supplier audit processes and CPI methodology.
• Knowledge of strategic sourcing and purchasing methodologies (RFI, RFP, 7-step SS, SRM, category management) and excellent negotiation skills.
• Knowledge of inventory planning techniques.
• Proven project management and communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to be proactive and persistent in a fast paced, multi-dimensional environment.
• Ability to build collaborative relationships across many functional areas.
• Ability to respectfully challenge status quo where appropriate, as supported by well-researched data and effectively articulate how each case will positively affect the company.
• Strong "follow up" mind set and attention to detail.

Why Wahl?

We are proud to celebrate over 100 years as the standard for grooming products used by barbers and hairdressers all over the world. Professionals and home users have relied on our innovative clippers, trimmers and personal care products for an entire century.

Today, the fourth generation of the Wahl Family remains deeply rooted in the daily operations and management of the organization. Living beyond the footsteps of their great-grandfather, the family continues to ensure that everything that Wahl produces aligns with the same core family values.

When you work at Wahl, you join a community that is proud of its heritage of excellence and ground-breaking innovations and a company that focuses on creating value for the customer and long-term growth.

Perks & Benefits:

• 401(k) Deferred Plan + Company Match
• Profit Sharing Retirement Plan
• Casual Dress Code
• Grand Rounds, Your Personal Healthcare Assistant
• Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Leo J. Wahl Scholarship for children of Wahl employees
• Competitive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Plans
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Life Insurance
• Short-Term Disability/Long Term Disability
• Generally observe 10 paid holidays per year
• Wellness Programs

Current Openings for Category Manager Jobs at Wahl Clipper Corporation