Category Procurement Leader - Automation

Description

The role will specifically focus on Werner's automation suppliers including Rockwell Automation.

The Category Procurement Leader is a strategic, high-impact role responsible for the end-to-end management of procurement activities within their designated product category. This role balances tactical execution with strategic oversight, taking the lead on anticipating market trends, managing supply chain risks, and supporting long-term supply chain optimization. The Category Procurement Leader works closely with the Purchasing Manager, Buyers, and other departments to ensure the organization maintains competitive advantages in purchasing, cost management, and market positioning.

• Partner with the Pricing department to assure price alignment.
• Work closely with the Purchasing & Margin Optimization Strategist to identify opportunities for cost reduction, process improvement, and margin optimization in category procurement.
• Develop and execute sourcing strategies that not only meet current demand but anticipate future needs. Ensure the procurement of category aligns with the company’s long-term goals.
• Take full ownership of executing purchase orders, ensuring accuracy and timely fulfillment in line with production and operational needs as well as returns to vendors & vendor invoice/credit reconciliation.
• Manage and strengthen relationships with suppliers, negotiate favorable terms, competitive pricing, and reliable delivery schedules. Collaborate with vendors to resolve issues quickly and ensure smooth operations.
• Coordinate with warehouse and logistics teams, using data analytics and forecasting, to proactively communicate warehousing capacity needs and ensure procurement schedules align with inventory requirements and operational timelines, supporting efficient warehouse management.
• Drive continuous improvements in purchasing processes, ensuring that procurement practices evolve to reflect changing market conditions, cost-saving opportunities, and efficiency gains.
• Continuously monitor global markets, including pricing, geopolitical risks, and supply chain trends. Use market intelligence to anticipate challenges and mitigate risks through supplier diversification, contingency planning, and proactive measures to ensure business continuity.
• Partner with sales, product, RDC, and logistics teams to ensure that inventory is available when needed to support business growth and project timelines.
• Provide the Purchasing Manager and leadership team with strategic insights on market conditions, risk analysis, and procurement strategies. Collaborate with internal stakeholders to align sourcing with business goals.

Requirements

• Foundational product knowledge of buy lines.
• Demonstrated experience in managing complex supply chains, anticipating market trends, and proactively addressing supply chain risks.
• 5 years of Strategic Sourcing, Procurement, Supply Chain Management experience, or leadership experience within the industry.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain Management, Procurement, or related field.
• Electrical component experience
• 2-5 years of experience working cross functionally with other departments.
• Proven track record of balancing tactical execution with strategic mission critical duties to support business goals.
• Automation related procurement experience

Benefits

• Paid Parental Leave
• Life and AD&D Insurance
• Identity Theft Protection
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Short & Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Accident Insurance & Critical Illness Coverage
• Wellness Programs
• Annual bonuses and merit increases based on performance
• Career Development & Leadership Training
• Pet Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match
• Paid holidays, vacation, personal, and sick days
• Tuition Reimbursement

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance