Category Manager, Fleet & Direct Materials

Job Title: Category Manager - Fleet/Direct Materials

Reports To: Director of Procurement

Status: Full-Time

Location Address: 3400 N Central Expy, Suite 410, Richardson, TX, 75080

Work Type: Hybrid (Tues, Weds, Thurs in-office)

Join the team of experts and realize your true potential!

Why You Should Join the Service Experts Team? Our team consists of the very best; we believe in doing what is right for our customers and our employees. We provide our employees with training support and an opportunity for unlimited professional growth. Join us and become an EXPERT!

Position Summary:

The Category Manager for Fleet/Direct Materials is responsible for developing and implementing strategic procurement initiatives for the organization's fleet vehicles and direct materials. This role focuses on optimizing spend, enhancing supplier relationships, and ensuring materials and fleet resources meet quality standards while supporting operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute category strategies for fleet vehicles and direct materials procurement that align with organizational objectives
• Analyze spend data, market trends, and supplier capabilities to identify cost reduction and process improvement opportunities
• Lead supplier selection processes including RFI/RFP/RFQ development, bid analysis, and contract negotiations
• Manage relationships with key suppliers to ensure contract compliance, performance targets, and continuous improvement
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including operations, engineering, and finance to understand technical requirements and business needs
• Monitor and forecast market conditions for relevant commodities and materials to mitigate supply chain risks
• Implement cost management initiatives including value engineering, specification optimization, and total cost of ownership analysis
• Establish and track KPIs for fleet operations and direct materials procurement
• Ensure compliance with company policies, industry regulations, and sustainability objectives
• Create and maintain comprehensive category plans with clear savings targets and implementation roadmaps

 Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in procurement or supply chain with specific focus on fleet management and/or direct materials
• Demonstrated experience in strategic sourcing and category management
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data analysis and financial modeling
• Experience with fleet lifecycle management including acquisition, maintenance, and disposal
• Knowledge of manufacturing materials, components, and related supply markets
• Proven negotiation skills and ability to develop effective supplier relationships
• Experience with procurement systems, ERP platforms, and data analytics tools
• Understanding of total cost of ownership principles and value analysis techniques
• Excellent project management and cross-functional collaboration skills

 Desired Skills/Experience:

• Professional certification in procurement (CPSM, CPM) or supply chain management (CSCP)
• Experience with sustainable procurement practices and green fleet initiatives
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and their application to supply chain
• Understanding of global sourcing strategies and international trade considerations
• Experience with supplier relationship management programs and supplier development
• Familiarity with fleet telematics, maintenance management systems, and related technologies
• Strong contract management experience including service level agreements
• Change management experience and ability to drive organizational adoption

 Working Conditions:

• Primary office environment with hybrid work options
• Occasional travel to supplier sites, manufacturing facilities, and fleet operations
• Regular interaction with internal stakeholders and external partners

 

What Do We Offer You as a Service Experts Employee? Service Experts offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employees and their families in managing their health and wellness needs, including:

• Competitive Pay with incentive opportunities.
• Paid Time Off and Com