Who is Forcepoint?
Forcepoint simplifies security for global businesses and governments. Forcepoint's all-in-one, truly cloud-native platform makes it easy to adopt Zero Trust and prevent the theft or loss of sensitive data and intellectual property no matter where people are working. 20+ years in business. 2.7k employees. 150 countries. 11k+ customers. 300+ patents. If our mission excites you, you're in the right place; we want you to bring your own energy to help us create a safer world. All we're missing is you!
CONTRACT Position - 6 months - HYBRID in office 2x week - Austin, Texas
We are seeking an experienced professional Category Manager to join our team for a 6-month contract position. This hybrid role requires in-office presence twice a week in Austin, Texas. The ideal candidate will collaborate with senior leadership to develop and execute sourcing strategies for IT and Marketing, manage global suppliers, and identify cost-saving opportunities. Key responsibilities include handling bid proposals, service agreements, and procurement processes, while maintaining high service and quality standards. A Bachelor's degree and over 7 years of experience in IT and Marketing procurement are required. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, SAP ERP, and strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential.
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Key Responsibilities
- Collaborate with key stakeholders and senior leadership to align with strategic direction, supply requirements, and business objectives.
- Develop, implement, and execute effective sourcing strategies for Information Technology and Marketing.
- Consolidate relevant data for IT and Marketing categories and manage the global supply base, including approved, preferred, and strategic suppliers.
- Identify opportunities for total cost optimization in IT and Marketing to achieve cost-saving targets.
- Develop and manage bid proposals (RFI/RFP), requirements documentation (SOW), service level agreements (SLA), purchase/service agreements, and other related documents to ensure quality, service, and commercial benefits.
- Process orders, handle routine transactions with customers and suppliers, and maintain high levels of service and quality.
- Provide market and industry intelligence, innovation, and best practices, including third-party risk assessment.
- Review and analyze data to support and optimize indirect sourcing and procurement practices.
- Ensure timely execution of the established sourcing process for all projects.
- Identify and leverage company-wide spending opportunities.
- Negotiate and implement cost reduction and supplier consolidation strategies for both operating expenses and capital improvement projects.
- Prepare clear, accurate, and concise reports, specifications, correspondence, and other written materials.
- Assist accounts payable in resolving vendor invoice discrepancies.
- Support cross-channel and company initiatives to achieve global strategic multi-channel plans.
- Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Education, Experience, and Skills
- Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution or equivalent.
- Over 7 years of experience in indirect purchasing and category management within IT and Marketing, including Digital, Social Media, Advertising, and Print Media.
- Strong technical aptitude.
- Proven track record of delivering significant savings and value; expertise in best-in-class procurement practices, sourcing, and RFP processes.
- Understanding of Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, with advanced skills in Excel.
- Strong analytical and financial planning abilities.
- Excellent interpersonal skills to build rapport and develop relationships with internal customers, colleagues, and external suppliers.
- Knowledge of SAP ERP software systems and processes.
- Self-starter with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage deadlines, and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment.
- Ability to address controversial topics and challenge assumptions to ensure actions are in the organization's best interest.
- Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills with mature judgment.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a respectful approach.
Don't meet every single qualification? Studies show people are hesitant to apply if they don't meet all requirements listed in a job posting. Forcepoint is focused on building an inclusive and diverse workplace - so if there is something slightly different about your previous experience, but it otherwise aligns and you're excited about this role, we encourage you to apply. You could be a great candidate for this or other roles on our team.
The policy of Forcepoint is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, citizenship status, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status and to affirmatively seek to advance the principles of equal employment opportunity.
Forcepoint is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer and offers opportunities to all job seekers, including job seekers with disabilities. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access the Company's career webpage as a result of your disability. You may request reasonable accommodations by sending an email to recruiting@forcepoint.com.
Forcepoint is a Federal Contractor. Certain positions with Forcepoint require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations or the Export Administration Regulations. Applicants for these positions may need to be "U.S. Persons," as defined in these regulations. Generally, a "U.S. Person" is a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or an individual who has been admitted as a refugee or granted asylum.
Applicants must have the right to work in the location to which you have applied.