Category Manager - Weller NPD & Finished Goods

Category Manager - Weller NPD & Finished Goods Job Req ID: 1118 Location: Lexington, SC, US, 29072 Huntersville, NC, US, 28078 Work Arrangement: Onsite The Blueprint (Role Profile) We are seeking a strategic Category Manager to lead sourcing strategy for Weller New Product Development (NPD) and Finished Goods across the Americas. This role serves as the category owner and subject matter expert, responsible for defining supplier strategy, enabling innovation programs, and ensuring a high-performing, resilient finished goods supply base. This position is a key partner to Engineering, R&D, Operations, and Quality, influencing design decisions, supplier selection, and cost structure from early product development through full production. The role operates with a high degree of autonomy and is expected to proactively drive initiatives that improve cost, quality, innovation, and supply continuity. This is an on-site role based in Lexington, SC, supporting close collaboration with cross-functional partners. Come build your future with us! The Build (Responsibilities) Own and execute category strategy for Weller NPD and Finished Goods suppliers Lead supplier selection, negotiations, and contracting for finished goods and NPD programs Partner with Engineering and R&D during product design to influence manufacturability, supplier choice, and cost targets Drive supplier development, innovation, and long-term capability building with key finished goods partners Lead sourcing workstreams for NPD launches, product transfers, and lifecycle cost improvement initiatives Manage RFQ/RFP processes for finished goods and strategic product categories Develop and execute cost reduction, value engineering, and working capital initiatives Monitor global supplier market dynamics and identify risks and opportunities impacting finished goods supply Lead supplier performance management, including scorecards, business reviews, and continuous improvement initiatives Develop and maintain risk mitigation and supply continuity strategies for critical finished goods suppliers Provide strategic procurement insight to leadership and cross-functional partners to support business planning and growth initiatives The Toolbox (Qualifications) Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Procurement, Engineering, Business, or related discipline; Master’s preferred 7+ years of progressive experience in Strategic Sourcing or Category Management Experience sourcing finished goods and supporting NPD programs required Strong understanding of supplier cost structures and design-to-cost principles Proven strategic sourcing, category leadership, and supplier relationship management experience Advanced analytical, negotiation, and problem-solving skills Proficiency in ERP systems; SAP preferred. Strong Microsoft Office skills, including advanced Excel Strong communication and influence skills with the demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional decisions Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver high-quality outcomes with minimal direction Ability to travel up to 25% At Apex Tool Group (www.apextoolgroup.com), we build innovation. Each day, our associates strive to find new and exciting ways to help our customers solve their most complex challenges. By harnessing our global resources, unprecedented insights and spirit for service, we build more than just tools for the jobsite – we help build the future. ATG is a global manufacturer of hand and power tools, tool storage and accessories, chain, and electronic soldering solutions with more than $1.2 billion in annual revenues. Our 6,700 associates around the world have built powerhouse brands like GEARWRENCH®, SATA®, Crescent®, Cleco®, Weller® and APEX®. Our brands are trusted by the professional trades and DIY enthusiasts alike. With our roots dating back to the 1800’s, our tools have driven technological advancements that drive efficiency, speed and safety for customers in a broad range of commercial and consumer markets. As part of the ATG team, you will move fast, think globally, learn from your colleagues and grow your career. You’ll enjoy competitive benefits, a healthy work/life balance and have opportunities to give back to the communities we serve. Our six core values - Customers Come First, Integrity in All We Do, Continuous Improvement, Innovation for Growth, Passion to Succeed and Best Talent, One Team - drive our daily decisions. Connect with us on social media to learn more – Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. If your goal is to work where finding a better way never ends and your ideas become reality, join us and say #WeBuildATG!