Category Manager

• Leads the strategic sourcing process for assigned categories, including Food and Beverage, Lodging, OSE, MRO, and FF&E, across corporate and business unit sites. Collaborates with functional and operational leadership to define specifications, prioritize objectives and strategies, assess risks, and align with cost and budget goals.
• Monitors cost trends within key commodity groups, reporting impacts and cost avoidance strategies to senior leadership. Conducts supplier research and evaluations based on a Total Cost of Ownership approach, considering factors such as price, service standards, quality, capability, reliability, and strategic alignment.
• Manages spend and volume analytics throughout the life cycle of category strategies, including forecasting, conversion, compliance, and trend analysis. Oversees the full RFP process for both new and existing products and services, including vendor selection and distribution analysis.
• Maintains contract documentation, including expiration dates and RFP timelines. Facilitates cross-functional communication to support the development and execution of organizational strategies.
• Investigates new products and services, evaluating their alignment with company initiatives and business objectives. Stays current with industry developments by studying trade publications, market reports, and relevant procurement and hospitality trends.
• Champions contract implementation and oversees its management throughout the contract life cycle. Acts as a point of escalation and collaborates closely with business units. Regularly solicits operational feedback and evaluates supplier performance through QBRs and other metrics.
• Leads Strategic Supplier Relationship Management for assigned categories, including the creation and upkeep of supplier performance scorecards, action items, and resolution of challenges. Coordinates with key stakeholders and departmental leadership as needed to drive results.

Qualifications:

• A college degree or equivalent work experience, with at least 7 years of experience in the hospitality and food service industries.
• Comprehensive understanding of Supply Chain Management and Strategic Sourcing processes, including post-award administration, with expertise in assigned categories.
• Exceptional financial analysis and forecasting capabilities, with a strong grasp of Total Cost of Ownership factors.
• Proven communication and negotiation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to proactively identify and mitigate risk factors and operational needs.
• Proven experience in building relationships and strategic partnerships, while motivating both internal teams and suppliers to achieve strategic goals.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Track record of working collaboratively across multifunctional teams in various regions to ensure cost control and process improvement strategies align with business goals and deliver results.
• Experience in Procure-to-Pay/Source-to-Pay ERP systems and content management.
• Familiarity with blended contract strategy models, integrating both Self-Managed and GPO solutions.