Category Lead
Goodyear Tire & Rubber · Akron
The Category Lead develops and executes sourcing strategies across multiple commodities while serving as the procurement operational lead for the region. This role uses market intelligence, cost modeling, and financial analysis to develop negotiation strategies and lead or support supplier contract negotiations. The position builds strategic supplier relationships focused on total cost of ownership, supply-chain advantages, innovation, and continuous improvement. It also collaborates with cross-functional stakeholders and category teams to align business priorities and strengthen procurement capabilities.
Why This Role Matters
- Drives strategic sourcing initiatives that align procurement priorities with broader category and business objectives.
- Strengthens supplier partnerships to improve total cost, supply chain value, innovation, and continuous improvement.
- Leverages market intelligence, cost modeling, and financial analysis to support effective negotiation strategies and business decisions.
- Builds strong cross-functional collaboration to enhance procurement capabilities and deliver sustainable value to the organization.
What You Will Do
- Develop and execute sourcing strategies across assigned commodities in alignment with the overall category strategy.
- Build and maintain strategic supplier relationships focused on total cost of ownership, supply chain advantages, innovation, and continuous improvement.
- Strengthen organizational and operational excellence by building cross-functional relationships and developing effective channels for market intelligence.
- Partner with key stakeholders and actively contribute to Commercial Council priorities and goals.
- Apply the 7-Step Strategic Sourcing Process and enhanced sourcing tools to support effective procurement decisions and execution.
- Collaborate with Category team peers and leaders while providing informal leadership and guidance to Procurement Specialists.
What We’re Looking For
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Supply Chain, or a related field; a master’s degree in a related discipline is preferred.
- 5+ years of experience in Procurement, Supply Chain, or a related operational function.
- Strategic sourcing experience and experience within a related industry are preferred.
- International experience is also preferred.
Additional Details
- Relocation Available: No.
- Sponsorship Available: No.
- Typical Schedule: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
- Travel Requirement: 5%.
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Goodyear is one of the world's largest tire companies. It employs about 63,000 people and manufactures its products in 48 facilities in 19 countries around the world. Its two Innovation Centers in Akron, Ohio, and Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg, strive to develop state-of-the-art products and services that set the technology and performance standard for the industry. For more information about Goodyear and its products, go to www.goodyear.com/corporate
If you need reasonable accommodation to complete the online application, or any other part of the employment process, please contact the Goodyear Candidate Care Line at 330.796.4500.
Goodyear is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.