The Global Category Manager is responsible for driving and executing cross-functional category strategies for third-party software within assigned region(s). This role serves as the primary commercial expert for the region, providing deep market insights and facilitating strategic sourcing initiatives that align procurement strategies with business objectives. The Category Manager is responsible for managing supplier relationships, ensuring continuity of supply, and influencing key stakeholders across Emerson’s SYSS global operations. Additionally, this role ensures that all software solutions meet stringent security and compliance standards. Success in this position is measured by the ability to drive cost optimization, mitigate risks, and foster innovation.

PRINCIPLE JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

 

Drive category strategies aligned with business goals and market dynamics that deliver cost savings, innovation and strategic value.

Identify and lead direct procurement activities for SYSS global and regional software categories, including sourcing, contracting, supplier qualification, and lifecycle management. 

Conduct comprehensive market, supplier, and spend analyses for assigned categories and region(s) to anticipate industry trends, pricing shifts and manage supply risks. Recommend optimal supply base strategies for assigned categories and regions.

Partners with Technology, Product Marketing, Supply Chain, Software Quality, Finance, Legal, World Area Operations, and Regional Proposal/Project teams to identify business needs, savings opportunities, process improvement and regulatory compliance requirements. 

Collaborate with suppliers and internal stakeholders on next-gen New Product Introduction (NPI), portfolio transition, roadmap alignment, lifecycle transitions, and last-time buy strategies to ensure continuity and innovation.

Lead qualifications of new suppliers and foster innovation through strategic partnerships and continuous improvement initiatives. 

Manage strategic supplier relationships and performance at all levels of the company, including regular business reviews and performance evaluations to ensure alignment with stakeholder requirements. 

Report on key performance indicators (KPIs), Strategic Sourcing plans, and progress to senior leadership. Deliver clear, data-driven presentations and recommendations. 

Lead contract negotiations with third-party software suppliers, ensuring favorable terms and risk mitigation. Work closely with Emerson Legal and internal stakeholders to review and finalize agreements aligned with business needs. 

Collaborate with royalty and software distribution teams to ensure compliance with licensing terms and regulatory requirements. 

Understanding of software procurement, licensing models, and supplier ecosystems a plus. 

Demonstrates the ability to engage and influence internal and external executive leadership to drive strategic sourcing decisions and supplier performance.

Assesses internal and external processes for improvement. Champion strategic priorities and lead change initiatives that enhance procurement effectiveness and agility.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

 

Bachelor’s degree 10 plus years of supply chain / Strategic sourcing experience or other related functions PC skills: MS Office, Internet, Data Analysis tools (example: Power BI)Capable of engaging at the senior most levels within Emerson and external stakeholdersProven ability to influence cross-functional stakeholdersStrong negotiation, contracting and supplier management skills Excellent analytical, communication, and presentation skills Legal authorization to work in the United StatesBachelor’s degree: Cybersecurity or Supply Chain Graduate degree a plus

 

 

Preferred:

Bachelor’s degree: Cybersecurity or Supply Chain Graduate degree a plus