Category Manager - Weller NPD & Finished Goods

The Blueprint (Role Profile)

We are seeking a strategic Category Manager to lead sourcing strategy for Weller New Product Development (NPD) and Finished Goods across the Americas. This role serves as the category owner and subject matter expert, responsible for defining supplier strategy, enabling innovation programs, and ensuring a high-performing, resilient finished goods supply base. This position is a key partner to Engineering, R&D, Operations, and Quality, influencing design decisions, supplier selection, and cost structure from early product development through full production. The role operates with a high degree of autonomy and is expected to proactively drive initiatives that improve cost, quality, innovation, and supply continuity. This is an on-site role based in Lexington, SC, supporting close collaboration with cross-functional partners.

Come build your future with us!

The Build (Responsibilities)

• Own and execute category strategy for Weller NPD and Finished Goods suppliers
• Lead supplier selection, negotiations, and contracting for finished goods and NPD programs
• Partner with Engineering and R&D during product design to influence manufacturability, supplier choice, and cost targets
• Drive supplier development, innovation, and long-term capability building with key finished goods partners
• Lead sourcing workstreams for NPD launches, product transfers, and lifecycle cost improvement initiatives
• Manage RFQ/RFP processes for finished goods and strategic product categories
• Develop and execute cost reduction, value engineering, and working capital initiatives
• Monitor global supplier market dynamics and identify risks and opportunities impacting finished goods supply
• Lead supplier performance management, including scorecards, business reviews, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Develop and maintain risk mitigation and supply continuity strategies for critical finished goods suppliers
• Provide strategic procurement insight to leadership and cross-functional partners to support business planning and growth initiatives

The Toolbox (Qualifications)

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Procurement, Engineering, Business, or related discipline; Master’s preferred
• 7+ years of progressive experience in Strategic Sourcing or Category Management
• Experience sourcing finished goods and supporting NPD programs required
• Strong understanding of supplier cost structures and design-to-cost principles
• Proven strategic sourcing, category leadership, and supplier relationship management experience
• Advanced analytical, negotiation, and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in ERP systems; SAP preferred. Strong Microsoft Office skills, including advanced Excel
• Strong communication and influence skills with the demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional decisions
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver high-quality outcomes with minimal direction
• Ability to travel up to 25%