Category Manager II

Who we are:  

We're transforming one of the world’s oldest industries with cutting-edge technology and an innovative approach. Backed by top-tier investors and recognized by Time as one of the "best Inventions of 2024" and Fast Company as one of 2024's "Next Big Things in Tech", Electra is scaling rapidly and we're looking for bold, driven individuals to help us reshape the future of iron production. If you're ready to make a real impact in a company that's redefining heavy industry for a cleaner, smarter world, we want to hear from you.

What you will do:  

As a Category Manager II on the Supply Chain Team, you will lead procurement and strategic sourcing activities, supporting the organization’s supply chain operations. The role will support the development of category and sourcing strategies for a broad group of categories, in line with companywide growth objectives to ensure that the organization’s strategic goals are met by optimizing cost, efficiency, and supplier relationships. 

Responsibilities include:

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies, best practices, and initiatives that support improvements in supplier quality, total cost effectiveness, delivery, lead times, risk compliance, ESG, and other areas as identified 
• Develop and lead all RFx activities (RFI/RFQ/RFP) for critical components and services, including developing SOPs for selection criteria and driving the selection of suppliers in collaboration with cross-functional teams 
• Manage contract negotiations, including terms, pricing, and delivery schedules, ensuring that contracts deliver value and protect the organization’s interests 
• Support development and execution of all Supplier Performance and Relationship Management activities within the team, taking ownership of SPM/SRM programs for your assigned categories 
• Support internal stakeholders by providing in-depth category and market insights and guidance, allowing for informed decision making in procurement activities 
• Analyze spend data and identify opportunities for cost savings, process improvements, and risk reduction 
• Develop negotiation and supplier performance improvement strategies, and proactively participate in problem resolution (NCRs, SCARs, delivery issues, etc.) and supplier risk analysis  
• Assist in the design and creation of internal procurement SOPs and policies that ensure compliance with financial, legal, and ethical requirements  
• Collaborate with project management, engineering, finance, legal, quality and operations teams to ensure alignment on project goals, timelines, and procurement activities 
• Read, understand, and comply with all workplace health and safety policies, safe work practices, and company policies and procedures 
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor 

What we need you to bring to the team:   

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business administration, engineering, or a related field, or equivalent work experience
• 2+ years of related experience or an advanced degree without experience or equivalent work experience (excluding internships, co-ops, and other school projects)
• Strong negotiation communication and stakeholder management abilities
• Strong financial acumen with the ability to drive cost efficiencies
• Proficiency with procurement and ERP systems
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite including, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneDrive, and SharePoint
• Strong analytical skills with a focus on data-driven decision-making
• Ability to manage multiple priorities exhibit a sense of urgency and maintain equilibrium in a fast-moving and changing startup environment
• Exercises judgment to resolve moderate-scope issues and contributes to analysis and problem-solving
• Builds productive internal and external relationships to resolve issues and ensure alignment
• Provides professional advice and creates initial reports and analyses for review by experienced team members