Category Manager – MRO, Packaging, Utilities

Patterson isnt just a place to work its a partner that cares about your success.

One of the distinguishing marks of our company is the talented people who embrace the people-first always advancing and results-driven culture. Professional growth abounds in this motivating environment. We value the diverse talents and experiences our employees bring to Patterson and believe that they build a stronger and successful organization.

This position leads the strategic sourcing and category management for Maintenance Repair and Operations (MRO) spend across Pattersons enterprise. The MRO Category Manager develops and executes sourcing strategies that optimize supplier partnerships reduce total cost of ownership (TCO) and ensure continuity of supply for critical indirect goods and services. This role partners closely with operations warehouse and procurement teams to drive value through improved availability standardization and supplier performance. The position is responsible for managing $30 35MM in indirect spend with a focus on reliability responsiveness and efficiency in MRO support across all locations.

Essential Functions

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies for MRO categories including MRO supplies MRO services energy/utilities packaging and certain capital expenditures aligning with business goals and operational needs.
• Partner with cross-functional stakeholders to define requirements and drive standardization across locations.
• Lead supplier selection RFx events negotiations and contracting while leveraging competitive intelligence and market data to secure best-in-class pricing service levels and lead times.
• Track and analyze category performance including spend and supplier KPIs. Develop cost models forecasts and strategies to mitigate risk.
• Implement and manage supplier performance programs including scorecards business reviews and corrective action planning to ensure high supplier service levels.
• Support inventory optimization and parts availability initiatives in collaboration with warehouse and maintenance teams.
• Negotiate and manage contracts ensuring proper terms for warranty service response preventative maintenance and product availability.
• Drive compliance with preferred suppliers procurement policies and standard MRO practices across the enterprise.
• Champion continuous improvement innovation and cost reduction initiatives related to MRO processes and systems.
• Develop and manage team member(s) on their day-to-day activities in support of the MRO category.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in Supply Chain Business Operations Engineering or a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 5 years of experience in strategic sourcing or category management including responsibility for MRO or fulfillment center related indirect spend.
• 5 years of contract negotiation experience
• Strong understanding of MRO categories distribution channels and supply market dynamics.
• Demonstrated ability to manage supplier relationships lead negotiations and influence stakeholders across functions and levels.
• High proficiency in data analysis cost modeling and Excel; able to turn insights into actions.
• Strong project management and organizational skills; able to juggle multiple initiatives and deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience working cross-functionally with operations and warehouse environments.
• Experience leading and developing teams

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with CMMS ERP systems or digital procurement tools (e.g. Coupa Ariba GEP).
• 5-8 years of experience in a sourcing role with increasing responsibility
• Contracting experience particularly in service agreements equipment warranties and performance-based contracts.
• Lean Six Sigma or other operational improvement training or mindset.

Whats In It For You:

We provide competitive benefits unique incentive programs and rewards for our eligible employees:

• Full Medical Dental and Vision benefits and an integrated Wellness Program

• 401(k) Match Retirement Savings Plan

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Holiday Pay & Floating Holidays

• Volunteer Time Off (VTO)

• Educational Assistance Program

• Full Paid Parental and Adoption Leave

• LifeWorks (Employee Assistance Program)

• Patterson Perks Program

The potential compensation range for this role is below. The final offer amount could exceed this range based on various factors such as candidate location (geographical labor market) experience and skills.

EEO Statement

Patterson provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race; color; sex; gender identity; sexual orientation; religious practices and observances; national origin; pregnancy childbirth or other related medical conditions; status as a protected veteran or spouse/family member of a protected veteran; or disability.