Category Lead

US OH Akron Corp Hdqtrs

Full time

JR-40113890

The Category Lead develops and executes sourcing strategies across multiple commodities while serving as the regional procurement operational lead. The role uses market intelligence, cost modeling, and financial analysis to develop negotiation strategies and lead or support contract negotiations. It also builds strategic supplier relationships focused on total cost, supply-chain advantages, innovation, and continuous improvement. Additionally, the position collaborates with cross-functional stakeholders and supports team capability by applying strategic sourcing processes and providing informal leadership to Procurement Specialists.

Why This Role Matters

• Drives strategic sourcing by developing and executing procurement strategies across multiple commodities, aligned with broader category objectives.
• Creates business value through supplier management and negotiations, focusing on total cost of ownership, supply-chain advantages, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Strengthens decision-making by leveraging market intelligence, cost modeling, and financial analysis to support effective sourcing and negotiation strategies.
• Enables cross-functional and organizational success by partnering with key stakeholders, supporting Commercial Council goals, and providing informal leadership to Procurement Specialists.

What You Will Do

• Develop and execute strategic sourcing strategies across multiple commodities, aligned with overall category objectives.
• Lead regional procurement activities and support or lead supplier and contract negotiations for assigned commodities.
• Build and manage strategic supplier relationships focused on total cost of ownership, supply-chain advantages, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Leverage market intelligence, cost modeling, and financial analysis to develop effective sourcing and negotiation strategies.
• Partner with cross-functional stakeholders and the Commercial Council to promote alignment, business continuity, and achievement of business goals.
• Apply the 7-Step Strategic Sourcing Process, collaborate across the Category team, and provide informal leadership to Procurement Specialists.

What We Are Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Supply Chain, or a related field; a master’s degree in one of these areas is preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in Procurement, Supply Chain, or a related operational function.
• Experience in strategic sourcing and a related industry is preferred.
• International experience is considered an advantage.

Additional Details

• Relocation Available: No
• Sponsorship Available: No
• Typical Schedule: Hybrid

#LI-SH1

Goodyear is one of the world's largest tire companies. It employs about 63,000 people and manufactures its products in 48 facilities in 19 countries around the world. Its two Innovation Centers in Akron, Ohio, and Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg, strive to develop state-of-the-art products and services that set the technology and performance standard for the industry. For more information about Goodyear and its products, go to goodyear.com/corporate

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