Senior Category Manager (Staff Level)

Who we are:  

We're transforming one of the world’s oldest industries with cutting-edge technology and an innovative approach. Backed by top-tier investors and recognized by Time as one of the "best Inventions of 2024" and Fast Company as one of 2024's "Next Big Things in Tech", Electra is scaling rapidly, and we're looking for bold, driven individuals to help us reshape the future of iron production. If you're ready to make a real impact in a company that's redefining heavy industry for a cleaner, smarter world, we want to hear from you.

What you will do:  

As a Senior Category Manager (Staff Level) on the Supply Chain Team, you will lead procurement and strategic sourcing activities supporting the organization’s corporate functions (HR, IT, Finance, Business & Marketing etc.). The role will support the development of category and sourcing strategies, in line with company-wide growth objectives, to ensure that the organization’s strategic goals are met by optimizing cost, efficiency, and supplier relationships. 

Responsibilities include:

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies, best practices, and initiatives that support improvements in supplier quality, total cost effectiveness, delivery, lead times, risk compliance, ESG, and other areas as identified  
• Develop and lead all RFx activities (RFI/RFQ/RFP) for critical components and services, including developing SOPs for selection criteria and driving the selection of suppliers in collaboration with cross-functional teams  
• Manage contract negotiations, including terms, pricing, and delivery schedules, ensuring that contracts deliver value and protect the organization’s interests  
• Support development and execution of all Supplier Performance and Relationship Management activities within the team, taking ownership of SPM/SRM programs for your assigned categories  
• Support internal stakeholders by providing in-depth category and market insights and guidance, allowing for informed decision-making in procurement activities  
• Analyze spend data and identify opportunities for cost savings, process improvements, and risk reduction  
• Develop negotiation and supplier performance improvement strategies, and proactively participate in problem resolution and supplier risk analysis   
• Assist in the design and creation of internal procurement SOPs and policies that ensure compliance with financial, legal, and ethical requirements   
• Collaborate with all internal teams to ensure alignment on project goals, timelines, and procurement activities  
• Read, understand, and comply with all workplace health and safety policies, safe work practices, and company policies and procedures  
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor  

What we need you to bring to the team:   

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience
• 12+ years of experience in procurement, sourcing, or supply chain roles, preferably in manufacturing or operations (excluding internships and school projects)
• Advanced negotiation, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills; able to influence diverse audiences and drive alignment across complex initiatives
• Strong financial acumen and strategic thinking; identifies and implements cost optimization opportunities across categories and functions
• Deep proficiency in procurement technologies and ERP systems; drives process innovation and operational efficiency
• Skilled in managing competing priorities with urgency and composure in dynamic, fast-paced environments, including startup or high-growth settings
• Advises on complex matters and may lead teams accountable for tactical business targets
• Deep understanding of business strategy and organizational objectives; designs and optimizes models, frameworks, and procedures to support long-term goals
• Strong conceptual thinking and problem-solving capabilities; navigates ambiguity and evaluates intangible factors to develop effective solutions
• Recognized thought leader and subject matter expert in category management; contributes to enterprise-wide initiatives and mentors peers
• Builds and maintains formal networks and cross-functional partnerships to sup