Advanced Drainage Systems is a leading manufacturer of stormwater and onsite septic wastewater solutions, committed to sustainability and innovation. With a vast manufacturing and distribution network, we deliver high-quality products across multiple industries while recycling over half a billion pounds of plastic annually. At ADS, we foster a culture where diverse perspectives drive better ideas, ensuring every employee feels valued, heard, and empowered to make an impact.
ResponsibilitiesThe Category Manager for Indirect Procurement is responsible for developing and deploying a Sourcing Strategy for the assigned Categories while ensuring Operational Procurement excellence and continuity of supply for approximately $250M in spend on Indirect goods and services. Categories include but not limited to: MRO, Logistics (Freight/Distribution, Fuel, Fleet Management, etc.) and Corporate spend such as Temp Labor, Marketing, Travel, IT, HR, and Legal.
Primary Job Responsibilities:
The responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:
Develop and implement sourcing strategies to align with the business needs of the organization.Generate cost savings YOY for the duration of the assignment, reporting monthly to executive team.Identify potential suppliers and conduct market research to assess their capabilities and fit.Negotiate contracts / terms with suppliers; including costing, capacities, delivery schedules, payment terms, rebate programs, etc.Incorporate Supplier Relationship Management principles to prioritize & align organizational resources.Establish and implement Governance for purchasing of indirect goods and services for the company.Perform Risk Assessment and develop mitigation plans for key areas of need.Collaborate with legal and compliance departments to ensure sourcing activities comply with applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards.Work closely with cross-functional teams, such as product development, manufacturing and supply chain, to align sourcing strategies with business objectives.Communicate effectively across all levels of the organization.Evaluate and assess supplier performance, conducting regular supplier audits and implementing improvement plans as needed.Maintain continuous pulse on emerging technologies to promote manufacturing innovation.Attend industry conference and seminars to build relationships and gain market intelligence.Develop knowledge of various sourcing tools (market analytics, industry data, should cost, SRM, Kraljic, etc.) and leverage in development of sourcing strategies.Lead cross-functional initiatives for development of TCO and Should-Cost models, VA/ VE, Process Improvement, etc.Job Skills
This position should possess the following skills/knowledge:
Demonstrated capability of developing sourcing strategies for sub-commodity categories within Indirect Goods and Services.Track record of delivering significant bottom line impact through deployment of sourcing strategies supporting Margin Expansion, Working Capital Improvement and Topline Growth.Experience in developing and maintaining supply agreements and contracts.Bachelor's degree in business, supply chain management, engineering, or a related field.Proven experience in strategic sourcing and procurement, preferably in a managerial or leadership role.Strong knowledge of global sourcing processes, strategies, and best practices.Excellent negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers.Strong project management & organizational skills, with the ability to handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.Analytical mindset with the ability to analyze data, identify patterns, and make data-driven decisions.Proficient in using sourcing & supply chain tools, systems, and software (ERP/Oracle, should cost, spend/market analytics, etc.)Project management that drives impact, strong results and leads change.Educational Requirements:
Bachelor's degree in business, supply chain management, engineering, or a related field.Preferred Experience:
5 to 8+ years of sourcing and industry experiencePhysical Requirements:
Travel up to 25%, with ability to travel internationally and domestically.#LI-CH1
#LI-Onsite
Company Benefits:Health & Welfare Benefits: Medical and prescription drug plans, telemedicine (with medical plan), dental and vision plans, virtual physical therapy*, an employee assistance program (EAP)*, and voluntary accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnification programs.
Financial Benefits: Retirement 401k program with company match, an employee stock purchase plan (voluntary), financial wellness planning*, paid parental leave*, flexible spending accounts (FSA) for child care and health care, short-term and long-term disability*, basic life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D)*, adoption financial reimbursement*, tuition reimbursement*, voluntary life insurance (for employees, spouses, and children), and voluntary identity theft and fraud protection.
*100% paid by ADS.
Why Join ADS?Growth Opportunities & Global Presence: With a global network of approximately 70 manufacturing plants and 40 distribution centers, ADS offers extensive opportunities for career growth and development in various locations around the world.
Inclusive and Creative Work Culture: ADS fosters a culture of passion, innovation, and continuous improvement, empowering employees to shape industry-leading solutions. We value diverse perspectives, recognizing that they drive better ideas, processes, and performance. Our workplace is built on respect, inclusivity, and shared responsibility, ensuring every team member feels valued and contributes to our collective success.
Innovative & Sustainability Focused: Advanced Drainage Systems is one of the largest plastic recyclers in North America, ensuring over half a billion pounds of plastic is kept out of landfills every year.
Learn More: https://www.adspipe.com/about-us
EEO StatementADS supports an inclusive workplace that values diversity of thought, experience, and background. We celebrate the power of our differences to create better solutions for our customers by ensuring employees can be their authentic selves each day. ADS is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, pregnancy, veteran status, marital status, creed, status with regard to public assistance, genetic status or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.