Category Manager I

The Category Manager I leads sourcing activities across assigned commodity categories, developing and implementing strategic category plans to support Komatsu North America's OE and Aftermarket requirements. This role is responsible for identifying qualified suppliers, negotiating contracts, managing supplier relationships, and driving cost reductions while aligning with business goals and corporate strategies. The position requires analytical expertise, leadership in cross-functional collaboration, and the ability to work independently to ensure category strategies deliver continuous improvement and optimal total cost.

This position is based in Milwaukee, WI and follows a hybrid work schedule, with four days onsite and one remote day per week.

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  Manage sourcing activities for assigned categories, including supplier identification, qualification, and selection in alignment with SLQDC principles.

  
  
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  Develop and execute category strategies for commodities such as steel, castings, forgings, machining, hydraulics, mechanical, electronics, and indirect materials.

  
  
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  Lead contract standardization efforts and manage master purchase agreements based on business and corporate objectives.

  
  
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  Analyze technical data, manufacturing capabilities, and supplier facilities to assess category opportunities and risks.

  
  
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  Collaborate with cross-functional teams to communicate and implement category strategies effectively.

  
  
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  Monitor market trends, conduct cost modeling, and perform "Should Cost Analysis" to inform sourcing decisions.

  
  
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  Own Supplier Relationship Management, fostering partnerships to improve quality, delivery, and cost.

  
  
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  Support cost reduction initiatives aligned with corporate targets.

  
  
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  Utilize procurement tools such as SAP, Ariba, and advanced MS Office applications to manage sourcing processes and reporting.

  
  
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  Ensure compliance with company policies and legal requirements in contract management.

  
  

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  Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Operations Management, Business, or related field preferred; associate degree with relevant experience considered.

  
  
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  Minimum of 5 years' relevant experience in category management, purchasing, or supply chain roles.

  
  
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  Proven analytical and critical thinking skills.

  
  
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  Strong negotiation and supplier relationship management capabilities.

  
  
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  Experience working in an ERP environment (SAP preferred).

  
  
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  Proficiency in MS Office suite; knowledge of procurement systems such as Ariba is a plus.

  
  
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  Demonstrated ability to lead projects independently and manage cross-functional teams.

  
  
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  Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a professional and positive attitude.

  
  
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  Certification such as CPIM, CSCP, or CPM is an advantage.

  
  
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  Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications preferred.

  
  
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  Knowledge of lean manufacturing and supply chain programs (Kanban, JIT, VMI, CI) beneficial.

  
  
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  Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 30%.

  
  

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  Health coverage, includingmedical, dental, vision, and life insurance eligible on first day of employment.

  
  
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  Retirement plansto support your long-term financial well-being.

  
  
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  Generous time off programsto promote work-life balance.

  
  
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  Annual bonus and performance-based merit reviews.

  
  
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  Professional developmentand tuition reimbursement support, including financial contributions for conferences, training, and coursework.