**Associate Category Leader** _Work Mode: Hybrid_ **Location:** Monterrey, Nuevo León **Work Mode:** Hybrid Mode **BASIC FUNCTION** Responsibleforcreating and executing sourcing strategies for assigned categories that allow Kohler Kitchen and Bath Group to win in the market whilesupply reducingrisk and lowering total cost. Develop intimate knowledge of assigned products, suppliers, markets, and costs to create targeted sourcing strategies that include robust supplier management, risk mitigation, and cost saving plans.Additionally, this positionwill own thedevelopment ofnew regional sources, byidentifying,evaluatingand onboardingpotential vendors within the assigned categories. Strong project management, communication and leadership activity will be necessary to meet annual goals andobjectives. Personal accountability, autonomy, communication, influence, and leadership will be critical to success in this role.This role is part of theNorth AmericaStrategic Sourcing group inK&B Purchasingand willsupportthe supply base and supplier relationships fornewanddevelopment suppliersfor any K&B categories. **RESPONSIBILITIES** **& COMPETENCIES** 1. Create clear and concise Sourcing Strategies for all assigned categories with robust Supplier Performance Plans, Risk Mitigation Plans and Cost Saving Plans. 1. Act as Subject Matter Expert for assigned product categories and suppliers. 1. Participate in thenew vendorstrategic sourcing process. This will includesupplier search,quotationprep,quote reviews, lead PPAPefforts,supplier/contract negotiations,supplier developmentand on-boarding. 1. Maintain required records such as quotes and price lists, supplier correspondence,contractsand supplier performance data. 1. Lead sourcing meetings withCategory Leaders,Operations, Engineering,Supply Chain, Quality and Supplier and Sourcing Leadership team. 1. Work with Kohler capital request systems to manage capital investments. **TECHNICAL** + SAP and Power BI experience is preferred. + Contracts + Strong contract clause knowledge, understanding and experiencenegotiating.Independentability to edit/revise a variety of standard contract templates and negotiate with suppliers to achieve the most favorable terms for Kohler Co. + Advanced understanding of business law and the ability to work directly with a legal team. + Lead the RFx/acquisition process to secure goods/services in the assigned area ofspendto ensure competitiveness and limit risk to Kohler. + Data Analysis + Interpret data sets,identifytrends, and use data as a tool to helpaccomplishgoals and communicate. + Total Cost of Ownership and Make vs. Buy calculations. + Price Modeling and Forecasting + Utilize market reports and indexes toidentifymarket trends, forecast and model prices. **PERSONAL/INTERPERSONAL** + Maintain professional ethics, business acumen, self-accountability, anda high levelof integrity always. + Development of cross functional relationships through active team roles and support, embracing diverse and global cultures. + Self-starter, self-motivated, ability to work independently, collaborates with teams. + Rely on experience and judgment to plan andaccomplishgoals. + Communication + Demonstrate clearly articulated speech and writing. + Use active listening skills and empathy to understand others. + Proactivelyidentifiesimprovements and supports/qualifies/sells ideas to management. + Leadership + Take the lead on projects that will drive your annual goals and metrics forward. + Influence, inspire and motivate others. + Development of cross functional relationships through active team roles and support, embracing diverse and global cultures. + Demonstrate time management and organizational skills that allow for managing many demands simultaneously. + Promotes self-development and the development within teams by all available resources (i.e., training programs, seminars, sharing of best practices, and self-study). **Skills/Requirements** **EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE** + Bachelor’s degree inBusiness,Supply Chain Management,Finance,Operationsor Engineering. + 8+ years of Purchasing experience. + Fluent in English (writing and speaking). + Contract clause knowledge, understanding and experience negotiating. + Proventrack recordof success in procuring, managing a supply base,negotiationsand project management. + Ability to create category and project strategy with the understanding of interdependences, risks, and impacts. + Experience with global markets understandingcost elements, market drivers, forecasting methods, modeling tools, and statistical analysis. + Manage and lead multi-location/global projects with expanded awareness of culture, currency, geography, political, and limited international exposure. + Travel is approximately20%. **Why Choose Kohler?** We empower each associate to #BecomeMoreAtKohler with a competitive total rewards package to support your health and wellbeing, access to career growth and development opportunities, a diverse and inclusive workplace, and a strong culture of innovation. With more than 30,000 bold leaders across the globe, we’re driving meaningful change in our mission to help people live gracious, healthy, and sustainable lives. **About Us** It is Kohler’s policy to recruit, hire, and promote qualified applicants without regard to race, creed, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran. If, as an individual with a disability, you need reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact kohlerjobs@kohler.com . Kohler Co. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.