Job Title: Category/Project Manager – T&D Business Line

Location: Evanston, IL or Aventura, FL

Remote: No

Department: Procurement

Position Type: Full time

Overview

American Wire Group (“AWG”), a leading supplier of insulated and bare wire and cable products, and services for infrastructure applications, specializes in renewable energy (wind and solar) and electric utility transmission, distribution, and substation products. AWG designs, manufactures, and markets exclusively branded products along with the industry’s best service and availability of inventory to deliver innovative solutions to the marketplace.

AWG needs an organized and analytical Category Manager (CM) to manage procurement, suppliers, and projects. In return, we offer a competitive salary, health benefits, bonus, and an opportunity to make an impact. The CM will take charge of key aspects of AWG’s strategic procurement of materials, managing manufacturing processes, and overseeing the delivery schedules to meet our customer demands efficiently. With a focus on transformers, the ideal candidate will have a technical background in electrical engineering or a related field, providing a deep understanding of the product line they will be managing. In addition, the CM will be process oriented, detailed, and effective at coordinating multiple business units to achieve the desired result: satisfied customers.

Scope of CM Role

AWG’s Transmission and Distribution business line needs a dedicated, experienced Category Manager. This pivotal role coordinates procurement, sales, engineering, and transportation to ensure the timely delivery of our customized products to their destination. At the same time, the CM will need to support and develop the Strategic Sourcing Plan, which anticipates future business needs and goals.

Technical Knowledge

Ideally, the CM will come with technical knowledge of transformers and will use that to make informed purchasing decisions. The CM will collaborate with the engineering team to understand technical requirements and to ensure that AWG products meet specifications.

Strategic Planning

As the CM engages in daily tasks, the CM will conduct detailed analysis of trends and emerging needs to develop a helpful Strategic Sourcing Plan. This will shape future procurement and delivery planning.

Manufacturing and Delivery Scheduling

The CM will work closely with manufacturing teams to plan and manage production schedules. Ensure timely delivery of products to customers by coordinating with logistics and supply chain partners.

Quality Assurance

Collaborate with quality assurance teams to ensure that all purchased products meet or exceed the company standards and customer expectations.

Reporting and Analysis

Prepare and present reports on procurement, manufacturing schedules, and inventory status to management. Use data analysis to drive decision-making and process improvements.

Collaboration

Work cross-functionally with sales, customer service, and technical teams to ensure alignment on product availability and delivery timelines.

Key Responsibilities

Procurement and Supplier Management

• Support and communicate with sales/engineering to gather current requirements and specifications to be used within an RFI, RFQ, or RFP.
• Prepare and Manage Requests for Quotation (RFQ), expedite and obtain quotations from 3rd Party Suppliers, and comply with RFQ Process
• Monitor and analyze inventory forecasts and usage, applying thorough knowledge of the company’s products and business objectives to make sound procurement decisions.
• Manage suppliers to obtain the best suppliers and to ensure optimal supply chain cohesion
• Develop and administer the Strategic Sourcing Plan
• Prepare Bid Analysis and recommend suppliers, based on technical/commercial bid and strategic decisions
• Develop/maintain pricing sheet for sales team
• Spearhead process enhancements through ERP system automation.
• Expedite and administer complex international arrangements for logistics department.
• Track shipment dates with suppliers to ensure accuracy in the system.
  • Expedite vendor orders; and
  • Provide “on track” vendor shipping reports

Project Management

• Maintain project delivery schedule development/tracking system.
  • Manage customer and vendor expectations
  • Update truck information as material ships on delivery schedule
  • Assist inside sales team by updating ERP system to match delivery schedule
  • Update project shipping dates to customer and AWG sales
  • Manage inventory, as needed

• Establish Project Milestones
  • Execute of milestones
  • Organize approved test reports, drawings/specs, and invoices.
  • Track invoice payment tracking
  • Assist accounts receivable department

• Coordinate Team Planning
  • Assist sales with best project execution options and lead times
  • Review projects with the head of the Project Management Department
  • Execute the project plan with general direction from operations and logistics

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, project management, or a related field.
• A technical background and experience in transformers, a significant plus.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in procurement, project management, or a similar role within the manufacturing industry.
• Strong analytical, organization and critical thinking skills.
• Must have an appetite for problem-solving and bringing successful closure to unexpected glitches in the process.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Proficiency in supply chain project management software and tools.
• Microsoft Office Suite and D365.

AWG Benefits: What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package that includes health, vision, dental, life insurance, 401(k), pre- and post-tax savings options, paid time off
• A dynamic, supportive work environment where people ask questions and learn from each other
• Opportunities for advancement, professional growth, and development
• Corporate outings, and sponsored events, including birthday and holiday catered celebrations

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume and cover letter. In your cover letter, explain why you are the ideal candidate for this role and how your background and experience will benefit our transformer product line.