Category Manager - Indirect Technology Procurement

As a member of the C&S Wholesale Grocers family of companies, SpartanNash is a food solutions company that delivers the ingredients for a better life. A distributor, wholesaler and retailer with a global supply chain network, SpartanNash distributes grocery and household goods, including fresh produce and the Our Family® portfolio of products, to locations in all 50 states.

Our braggingly happy team members — ranging from bakery managers to order selectors; from IT developers to vice presidents of finance; from HR Business Partners to export specialists — create braggingly happy customers spanning national accounts, independent and chain grocers, e-commerce retailers, U.S. military commissaries and exchanges, and the Company’s own brick-and-mortar grocery stores, pharmacies and fuel centers.

Ready to contribute to the success of our food solutions company? Apply now!

Location:

*This is a hybrid position for candidates residing within 50 miles of Byron Center, MI and requires 3 days/week in office*

Position Summary:

Responsible for leading sourcing and category management initiatives across indirect spend categories. This role partners closely with internal stakeholders to align procurement strategies with business objectives, drive cost savings, and ensure supplier performance. Responsible for leading sourcing events, negotiates complex agreements, and manages supplier relationships to deliver long-term value, control costs and mitigate risk.

Here’s what you’ll do: 
•    Lead Strategic Sourcing Initiatives: Manage end-to-end sourcing processes including RFx development, supplier evaluation, and contract execution.
•    Category Management: Develop and execute category strategies that align with business needs and market dynamics.
•    Supplier Negotiations: Lead negotiations for new contracts, renewals, and amendments to secure favorable pricing, terms, and service levels.
•    Stakeholder Collaboration: Partner with business units, finance, and legal teams to ensure procurement strategies support operational and financial goals.
•    Spend Analysis & Optimization: Analyze spend data and market trends to identify cost-saving opportunities and improve procurement efficiency.
•    Contract Lifecycle Management: Oversee contract creation, execution, and compliance using appropriate tools and processes.
•    Supplier Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers; conduct performance reviews and manage supplier segmentation.
•    Executive Communication: Strong ability to present strategies, business cases, and recommendations to senior and executive-level stakeholders.
•    Risk Management: Identify and mitigate supplier and contractual risks through due diligence and proactive planning.
•    Process Improvement: Drive continuous improvement in sourcing processes, tools, and policies.
•    Compliance & Governance: Ensure adherence to procurement policies, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements.

Here’s what you’ll need: 

•    Strategic Sourcing & Negotiation: Proven ability to lead sourcing events and negotiate complex agreements across various categories.
•    Analytical Thinking: Strong skills in spend analysis, market research, and supplier performance evaluation.
•    Contract & Commercial Acumen: Solid understanding of contract terms, risk mitigation, and supplier governance.
•    Stakeholder Engagement: Ability to influence and collaborate effectively across functions and levels of the organization.
•    Procurement Tools Proficiency: Experience with e-sourcing platforms, contract management systems, and spend analytics tools.
•    Business Acumen: Understanding of financial principles, budgeting, and cost management.
•    Bachelor’s Degree Required: Most commonly in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Finance, or Marketing 
•    Experience:
•    Minimum seven years of progressive experience in procurement, sourcing, or category management.
•    Proven track record in supplier negotiations, contract management, and strategic sourcing.
•    Experience in managing indirect spend categories such as professional services, IT, facilities, or marketing is highly desirable.
•    Preferred Advanced Degree: MBA or Master’s in Supply Chain or Procurement-related field is a plus.
•    Certifications (Preferred but Not Required):
•    Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)
•    Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM)

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
May be required to lift and/or move 20 pounds. The associate is frequently required to sit/stand/walk. While performing the duties of this position, the associate is subject to a typical office environment and is rarely exposed to outside weather conditions. Temperatures may vary for those subject to any of the following areas: computer/server room, print shop, production area). The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate but may be high in distribution settings. Travel requirements vary by assignment.

#LI-REMOTE

As part of our People First culture, SpartanNash is proud to offer a robust and competitive Total Rewards benefits package.

SpartanNash is an Equal Opportunity Employer that invests in Associate development, recognizes and celebrates success, fosters two-way communication, and promotes a sense of belonging. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals, including those with disabilities and Veterans. 

We are not able to sponsor work visas for this position.