What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Category Analyst position at Merastar Insurance Company?
Location(s) Chicago, Illinois Details Kemper is one of the nation’s leading specialized insurers. Our success is a direct reflection of the talented and diverse people who make a positive difference in the lives of our customers every day. We believe a high-performing culture, valuable opportunities for personal development and professional challenge, and a healthy work-life balance can be highly motivating and productive. Kemper’s products and services are making a real difference to our customers, who have unique and evolving needs. By joining our team, you are helping to provide an experience to our stakeholders that delivers on our promises. Job Summary: The Senior Category Analyst supports the execution of sourcing initiatives across a range of goods and services, contributing to enterprise cost optimization, risk mitigation, and compliance objectives. This role partners with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to manage sourcing processes, support negotiations, and ensure purchasing activities align with organizational standards. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, and comfortable working across functional areas. Key Responsibilities: Category Strategy & Planning Partner with Stakeholders to develop and execute category strategies aligned with business goals and procurement policies. Conduct detailed spend and supplier segmentation to identify cost-saving opportunities. Support category planning by analyzing market trends, supplier risks, and innovation opportunities. Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management Facilitate sourcing processes (RFP, RFI, RFQ), from requirements gathering and supplier selection to negotiation and contract execution. Negotiate pricing, terms, and service levels Ensure sourcing activities align with procurement policy and relevant insurance regulations. Stakeholder Engagement Collaborate with internal business partners (Claims, Underwriting, IT, Finance, HR, Operations) to understand category requirements. Provide analytical support and commercial advice to stakeholders and Category Managers. Communicate insights clearly and influence decision-making through evidence-based recommendations. Data, Reporting & Compliance Monitor category performance through spend analysis, savings tracking, and supplier KPIs. Ensure sourcing practices meet internal policies and external regulatory requirements. . Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Finance, Economics, or a related field (or equivalent experience). 3–5 years of experience in sourcing, procurement, or contract support Strong organizational and communication skills Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and manage multiple priorities Strong understanding of sourcing, negotiation and contract processes Preferred Qualifications: Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau). Certification in procurement or supply chain (e.g., CPSM, CIPS). Experience with e-sourcing and contract management tools. Skills & Competencies: Strong Analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail. Excellent organizational, time management, and multitasking abilities. Strong written and verbal communication skills. High attention to detail and accuracy. Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment at all levels Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data analysis tools. Kemper is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, disability status or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. We are committed to supporting diversity and equality across our organization and we work diligently to maintain a workplace free from discrimination. Kemper does not accept unsolicited resumes through or from search firms or staffing agencies. All unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of Kemper and Kemper will not be obligated to pay a placement fee. Kemper will never request personal information, such as your social security number or banking information, via text or email. Additionally, Kemper does not use external messaging applications like WireApp or Skype to communicate with candidates. If you receive such a message, delete it. Kemper at a Glance The Kemper family of companies is one of the nation’s leading specialized insurers. With approximately $12 billion in assets, Kemper is improving the world of insurance by providing affordable and easy-to-use personalized solutions to individuals, families and businesses through its Kemper Auto and Kemper Life brands. Kemper serves over 4.6 million policies, is represented by approximately 24,200 agents and brokers, and has approximately 7,500 associates dedicated to meeting the ever-changing needs of its customers. *Alliance United Insurance Company is not rated. We value diversity and strive to be an employer of choice. An Equal Opportunity Employer, M/F/D/V Our employees enjoy great benefits: • Qualify for your choice of health and dental plans within your first month. • Save for your future with robust 401(k) match, Health Spending Accounts and various retirement plans. • Learn and Grow with our Tuition Assistance Program, paid certifications and continuing education programs. • Contribute to your community through United Way and volunteer programs. • Balance your life with generous paid time off and business casual dress. • Get employee discounts for shopping, dining and travel through Kemper Perks.