Category Manager

We are seeking a Category Manager with experience sourcing and procurement of imaging sensors, optical systems and subcomponents, and related technologies to join our growing team in Hood River, Oregon.  This role is open to candidates with mid- to senior-level experience.  At the mid-level, you will contribute directly to sourcing strategy, supplier negotiations, and building long-term supply partnerships.  At the senior level, you will also take on a mentorship role, guiding other Commodity Sourcing Managers, driving strategic initiatives, and leveraging a combined ten years of education and experience in commodity sourcing to include securing long-term supply agreements that support our company’s success and innovation.  For qualified candidates outside the area, we offer relocation assistance to make Hood River your home.

Purpose of Position: This position develops and executes sourcing strategies for critical purchased subsystems and components. This role collaborates with suppliers and internal stakeholders to achieve company objectives related to cost reduction, supply chain risk mitigation, negotiation of supply agreements, and supplier quality and delivery performance.

Summary of Essential Job Functions: 

• Develop and implement holistic category sourcing strategies that optimize cost, quality, delivery, innovation, and resilience, including proactive identification and mitigation of risks across the supply chain and sub-supply chain.
• Own and develop designated key supplier relationships, including market analysis, strategy, negotiations, cost reduction targets, and supplier financial health assessments.
• Coordinate sourcing strategies with operations, engineering, and quality stakeholders to ensure the supply of materials in a quality, cost-effective, and timely manner.
• Lead cross-functional Category Management Teams as a structured means of gathering input from and coordinating required actions with internal stakeholders.
• Conduct market analysis to facilitate critical decision-making and negotiations.
• Identify potential suppliers, evaluate their capabilities, and negotiate terms and conditions to ensure that Trillium receives the best possible value.
• Develop cost-saving proposals, including alternative sourcing options where appropriate.
• Manage relationships with suppliers, ensuring that they meet Trillium's performance requirements and expectations regarding quality, cost and on-time delivery.
• Develop supplier communication strategies and establish formal business reviews as required.
• Execute Purchase Orders for goods and services within assigned categories, from RFQ through delivery acceptance.
• Monitor and analyze supplier performance data to identify areas for improvement.
• Perform sourcing activities in compliance with Trillium’s Code of Business Ethics and Conduct as well as any applicable statutory or regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate the completion of Purchase Requisitions for requested goods and services as required.
• Support fellow procurement team members during personal time off, business travel, and periods of peak demand.
• Other duties as assigned.

 Education and Experience Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or an equivalent combination of work experience and training.
• Five years of experience in sourcing and procurement of relevant technologies.
• Strong negotiation skills.
• Experience working in ERP and related systems.

 Physical Demands of Position:

• Travel to supplier locations as required (estimated at 10%)
• Physically able to lift up to 20 pounds (materials/equipment)
• Effective use of a laptop computer and mobile phone to exchange information.

 Competencies and Skills Requirements:

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Excellent team skills and team oriented.
• Excellent time management skills and meets deadlines.
• Flexible; able to multi-task in response to time-sensitive and changing situations.
• Effective listening skills.
• Objective, solution-oriented problem-solving skills.
• Handles highly sensitive and confidential information.
• Resourceful, able to network and connect people to appropriate resources.
• Technology savvy, comfortable using MS software products.
• Strong planning and organizational skills and follow through.
• Resilient, stays positive and solution oriented.
• Perceptive, discovers underlying issues in situations and re-states them in a helpful way.
• Self-starter with a strong work ethic, able to work without direct supervision.

Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.