Mgr Category Management

Leads procurement and category management strategies for assigned spend areas, driving cost savings, supplier performance, and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). Partners with internal stakeholders and leads a team to execute sourcing strategies and manage strategic vendor relationships.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and develop Category Specialists and Buyers, including coaching and performance management.

Own category strategies and sourcing roadmaps aligned to business and TCO objectives.

Oversee sourcing initiatives, supplier selection, and complex contract negotiations.

Drive category planning, including demand management, supplier segmentation, and risk mitigation.

Establish and monitor performance metrics to deliver cost savings and service improvements.

Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders to align on sourcing strategies and business needs.

Manage strategic supplier relationships, including performance, governance, and issue resolution.

Ensure accuracy of procurement data and reporting within systems (e.g., Workday).

Monitor market trends and supplier innovations to inform strategy.

Requirements

8+ years of experience in indirect sourcing, procurement, or consulting.

Strong leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.

Salary Range: $105,200.00 - $147,950.00

Salary is commensurate to experience, location, etc.

Horace Mann was founded in 1945 by two Springfield, Illinois, teachers who saw a need for quality, affordable auto insurance for teachers. Since then, we’ve broadened our mission to helping all educators protect what they have today and prepare for a successful tomorrow. And with our broadened mission has come corporate growth: We serve more than 4,100 school districts nationwide, we’re publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange (symbol: HMN) and we have more than $12 billion in assets.

We’re motivated by the fact that educators take care of our children’s future, and we believe they deserve someone to look after theirs. We help educators identify their financial goals and develop plans to achieve them. This includes insurance to protect what they have today and financial products to help them prepare for their future. Our tailored offerings include special rates and benefits for educators.

EOE/Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status

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