Category Manager, Labs

JOB DESCRIPTION
This role is hybrid on-site at our Northbrook, IL corporate office (3) days a week
The Project Sourcing Manager for Capital Equipment is responsible for the strategic sourcing, negotiation, and procurement of large-scale capital equipment for construction and infrastructure projects in the Lab space. This role ensures the timely and cost-effective procurement of lab specific complex mechanical and electrical equipment. The ideal candidate will have deep experience in project-based procurement, Electrical and mechanical assemblies , and contract negotiation in an industrial setting.
Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Sourcing & Procurement
  • Develop and execute sourcing strategies for capital equipment aligned with project timelines and budgets.
  • Lead competitive bidding processes (RFI/RFP/RFQ) and evaluate supplier proposals.
  • Manage supplier selection, qualification, and onboarding processes.
• Project Coordination
  • Collaborate with project managers, engineers, construction, facilities team to deliver to each project milestone.
  • Escalate risks as discovered with a plan and cross functional consensus
  • Act as the primary point of contact between Supplier and project team for the capital equipment.
• Contract Management
  • Negotiate Standard contractual terms with the supplier including commercial terms, warranties, payment terms, and delivery clauses for major equipment purchases.
  • Negotiate project specific SOW and terms to implement project specific milestones.
  • Work with legal and compliance teams to ensure contract adherence and risk mitigation.
  • Maintain contract documentation and track supplier performance.
• Cost Control & Optimization
  • Using TCO model drive cost savings through value engineering, volume leverage, and alternative sourcing strategies.
  • Identify opportunities for standardization of equipment across multiple projects in multiple regions if applicable
• Supplier Relationship Management
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with strategic suppliers.
  • Monitor supplier performance and resolve issues related to quality, delays, or non-compliance.
  • Conduct supplier audits and performance reviews as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, business, Information Technology, Supply Management, or related field, CPSM certification a plus.
• Minimum 3+ years of experience in developing and executing category strategies in purchasing of goods and services to support lab build, expansion and operations. Familiarity with technologies available in the marketplace today.
• Comfortable interacting with and presenting to senior leadership.
• Works independently, with guidance in only the most complex situations and lead functional teams/ projects.
• Proven track record of delivering significant and sustainable cost reductions through effective development and execution of sourcing strategy.
• Superior relationship management and cross-functional leadership skills.
• Experienced sourcing practitioner, understanding of best-practice sourcing methodology and a demonstrated track record of working ethically to achieve excellent outcomes.
• Knowledge of standard commercial contracting practices and procedures.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and able to navigate in times of uncertainty, prioritize, and manage expectations.
• Ability to take a hands-on approach to analyze and interpret spend data is support of sourcing initiatives and UL Solutions business objectives.

Total Rewards: We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. The estimated salary range for this position is $104,200 to $130,000 and is based on multiple factors, including job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, as well as other factors. This position is eligible for annual bonus compensation with a target payout of 20% of the base salary. This position also provides health benefits such as medical, dental and vision; wellness benefits such as mental and financial health; and retirement savings (401K) commensurate with the standard rewards offered in each individual location or country. We also provide full-time employees with paid time off including vacation (15 days), holiday including floating holidays (12 days) and sick time off (72 hours).
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