Mgr Category Management

The role

Leads procurement and category management strategies for assigned spend areas. Partners with internal stakeholders and leads a team to execute sourcing strategies and manage strategic vendor relationships.

What you will do

• 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.

Required qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in indirect sourcing, procurement, or consulting.
• Strong leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.

About the company

Horace Mann was founded in 1945 by two Springfield, Illinois, teachers. The company serves more than 4,100 school districts nationwide and is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange.