Category Manager (software focus)

* Develops and executes global category strategies and prepares, negotiates, manages, and coordinates agreements supporting assigned categories.* Collaborates with business leaders in the establishment and execution of procurement strategies.* Evaluates and selects suppliers in terms of quality, service, cost, and capability. Ensures competitive pricing and service model versus value proposition, industry trends and market dynamics.* Prepares bid packages, conducts bidder conferences, creates statements of work, analyzes and evaluates proposals, negotiates terms and conditions, selects or recommends suppliers, writes awards, and administers resulting contracts.* Manages supplier relationship including pipeline development, relationship development, communications, supplier onboarding, and project handoff to operational area.* Skillfully negotiates to achieve spend targets.* Works with various functions within the company including other business units to coordinate requirements, facilitate contract co-terminations, and leverage spend.* Administers and manages supplier contracts to ensure compliance, externally and internally.* Keeps apprised of market trends and changes in business practices in the assigned categories.* Tracks cost savings, cost avoidance, and cost increases.* Performs various reporting and spend analysis to support business goals.* Leads and executes key projects for the Indirect Procurement Team (examples: implementing a Contract Management Tool and a new Procure-to-Pay System).* Other duties, as assigned.* Bachelor’s degree and 5+ years of purchasing or related experience or equivalent education and experience.* Demonstrated ability to use Microsoft Office applications; Microsoft Excel expertise a must.* ERP system experience.* Experience in negotiating agreements and contracts with strong comprehension of legal and commercial terms and conditions.* Solid knowledge of supply chain requirements, systems, supplier development, indirect procurement categories, and process improvement.* Ability to lead teams and influence peers and other cross-functional teams; strong communication skills. Highly-developed interpersonal skills and self-motivated.* Strong analytical and problem solving skills* Able to travel up to 15%, including internationally.* Must be able to lawfully work within the USA and have unrestricted work authorization for USA.* Previous Six Sigma training, Black or Green Belt desired.* Experience in developing and implementing category strategies.* Advanced degree in Business Administration or Purchasing Management.* Nationally recognized professional certification (Certified Purchasing Manager or Certified Professional Contract Manager).* Experience in working with intellectual property concepts and contractual language.* Oracle and Coupa systems experience.* Business Objects – Data warehouse experience.At Entrust, we don’t just offer jobs – we offer career journeys. Here is what you can expect when you join our team:Flexibility: Life is all about balance. Whether you’re remote, hybrid, or on-site, we offer flexible options that fit your lifestyle. #J-18808-Ljbffr