Procurement Category Manager
2 days ago
Nashville
COMPANY OVERVIEW Helix Traffic Solutions is a traffic control and work zone management group. The family of companies united under Helix Traffic Solutions provides quality, experienced traffic management services throughout the West, Southwest, Southeast, Northwest, Northeast and the Mid-Atlantic regions. As an industry leader, we quickly and effectively respond to all traffic control service needs, expectations and project requirements. We provide a full suite of traffic management services aimed at providing solutions for projects of any size. Job Summary: The Procurement Category Manager will be a key member of the newly formed Corporate Procurement team at Helix Traffic Solutions, supporting the company’s transformation towards a centralized and data-driven purchasing function. The Category Manager is responsible for developing and executing strategic sourcing plans for products and services related to traffic management, including traffic signals, road safety equipment, signage, and intelligent traffic systems. This role involves managing supplier relationships, ensuring the cost-effective procurement of quality materials, and driving innovation within the category. The Category Manager will also collaborate with internal stakeholders to align procurement activities with project requirements and business objectives. The ideal candidate should have deep industry knowledge, exceptional negotiation skills, and a strategic approach to procurement. The role will report to the Director of Procurement, who oversees the strategic, operational, and tactical execution of the company's centralized purchasing capabilities. This Director role oversees the procurement and purchasing activities, ensuring that goods and services are sourced cost-effectively and efficiently – balancing cost, quality, and performance to enable our organization's value growth. The procurement organization works cross-functionally with finance, sales operations, risk/safety, legal, and M&A Integration to stay aligned and help the organization stay ahead of needs. If you are a meticulous and strategic-minded procurement professional looking to make an impact in a high-growth organization, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity! Key Responsibilities: • Category Strategy Development: Define and implement strategic sourcing plans for the traffic category, including traffic control devices, road safety systems, and signage, to support the company’s business goals., • Supplier Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, ensuring the delivery of high-quality materials, competitive pricing, and timely service., • Contract Negotiation: Lead negotiations for major contracts within the traffic industry category, securing favorable terms and conditions while mitigating risks., • Market and Industry Analysis: Conduct in-depth research into market trends, pricing, and supplier capabilities within the traffic industry, identifying opportunities for innovation and cost savings., • Cost Optimization: Develop and implement cost-saving initiatives through supplier consolidation, bulk purchasing, alternative sourcing, and process improvements without compromising quality or compliance., • Compliance and Standards: Ensure all products within the category meet relevant industry standards and comply with local, state, and federal regulations (e.g., MUTCD, DOT requirements) related to traffic control and safety., • Supplier Performance Management: Establish performance metrics for suppliers, monitor delivery times, product quality, and cost efficiency, and take corrective action when needed., • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with engineering, operations, logistics, and project management teams to ensure procurement activities align with project timelines and technical specifications., • Inventory and Demand Management: Collaborate with internal teams to forecast demand for traffic products, manage inventory levels, and avoid supply chain disruptions., • Technology and Innovation: Stay informed about emerging technologies in traffic management and road safety (e.g., smart traffic systems, ITS) and integrate innovative solutions into the category strategy., • Reporting and Analysis: Prepare regular reports for senior management, including category performance, cost savings, supplier performance, and market trends., • Team Leadership: Lead and mentor a team of buyers and procurement professionals, fostering a collaborative and results-driven environment. Qualifications: • Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business, Engineering, or a related field., • Proven experience as a Category Manager, ideally within the traffic or infrastructure industry., • Deep understanding of traffic management systems, road safety products, and traffic control devices., • Strong negotiation and contract management skills, with a track record of driving cost savings and securing favorable terms., • Expertise in supply chain management, with the ability to manage complex supplier relationships and procurement processes., • Familiarity with industry regulations, standards, and safety requirements (e.g., MUTCD, DOT)., • Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to conduct market research, analyze data, and develop strategic sourcing plans., • Strong communication, leadership, and team management abilities., • Proficiency in procurement software and systems (e.g., Oracle NetSuite, SAP, Ariba)., • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, project-driven environment Why Join Helix • Be a part of a fast-growing company that is shaping the future of traffic management and roadway safety., • Opportunity to play a pivotal role in building a corporate-wide purchasing function in a dynamic, M&A-driven environment., • Work with a team of industry professionals committed to operational excellence and innovation., • Competitive salary, benefits, and professional growth opportunities.