Manager, Category

The Manager, Category leads and develops a high-performing team of Category Managers in Vendor Management responsible for creating and executing enterprise category strategies that optimize cost, quality, service, risk management, and supplier performance across assigned spend portfolios. This Manager will drive category maturity, develop sourcing capabilities, and deliver measurable business value through effective leadership, market expertise, supplier innovation, and cross-department collaboration.

Here's what you can expect from the job and what you need to be successful:

Job Duties:

• Leads the development and execution of category strategies, sourcing roadmaps, and supplier portfolios to deliver sustainable value, cost optimization, and business outcomes. Drives market intelligence, innovation, and strategic planning to align category priorities with organizational objectives.
• Provides leadership, coaching, and performance management to build a high-performing procurement team with strong capabilities in sourcing, supplier management, analytics, and stakeholder engagement. Fosters a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous professional development.
• Oversees complex sourcing initiatives, contract negotiations, and supplier selection activities to maximize value, mitigate risk, and support business goals. Leads supplier governance and performance management programs to strengthen strategic partnerships and drive continuous improvement.
• Acts as a trusted advisor to business leaders by providing strategic procurement expertise, market insights, and data-driven recommendations. Builds strong cross-functional partnerships to align sourcing strategies with operational and organizational priorities.
• Ensures compliance with procurement policies, governance standards, and risk management practices while delivering savings, budget objectives, and performance targets. Proactively identifies and mitigates supplier, operational, financial, and market risks through effective oversight and reporting.

Essential Skills:

• Required Experience: 5+ years of experience in contract management, procurement, legal operations, or related areas.
• Experience leading a diverse team including hiring, coaching and performance management
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams and manage deliverables.
• Strong knowledge of contract lifecycle management, negotiation principles, and compliance requirements.
• Ability to interpret contract language, assess risk, and recommend appropriate actions.
• Strong analytical and problemsolving skills in resolving contract issues.
• Experience with contract management systems and documentation practices.
• Effective communication and stakeholdermanagement skills across business and technical teams.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and operate in a dynamic environment.
• Required Education: Bachelor's degree in field relevant to role (or 4 additional years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree), advanced degree preferred.

Location:Hillsboro Corporate Office | Hillsboro OR 97124ORMarlborough Corporate Office | Marlborough, MA

Target Compensation: $116,500-$140,000 base pay + Annual Bonus

Benefits options include:

• Traditional medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Generous 401K company matching
• Paid Time Off: You'll accrue up to 15 vacation days in your first year. In addition, you'll receive 40 hours of sick time and 3 personal days, which refresh annually
• 11 paid federal holidays
• Special employee pricing on lending products such as mortgage, auto, and personal loans (eligibility for special employee pricing is subject to standard account requirements and underwriting criteria)

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First Tech is not currently offering Visa sponsorship or transfer for this position

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