Category Manager

Who We Are

At CPC (Colder Products Company), we're not just connecting fluid lines – we're connecting people, ideas, and possibilities. For nearly 50 years, we've been engineering cutting-edge fluid connection technologies that power industries from biopharmaceutical, thermal management (liquid cooling of electronics), medical, industrial, and chemical handling markets.

But what sets us apart? Our people.

We're a team of problem-solvers, innovators, and forward thinkers who thrive in a culture that values collaboration, creativity, and continuous improvement. Headquartered in Minneapolis/St. Paul, with over 700 employees in 14 countries, we're growing fast, and we want you to grow with us

Your Role

Are you ready to make an impact and work with a company that values your expertise, ideas, and career growth? As our next Category Manager, you'll be at the forefront of shaping our organization's success. This isn't just a job – it's a career move where you'll thrive, learn, and enjoy coming to work.

Summary: This Category Manager is responsible for the development and execution of strategies within an assigned business-wide category/categories. This role will manage existing suppliers and identify new suppliers by providing leadership in a cross-functional team environment for sourcing, strategic planning, category expertise, supplier selection, cost and capital management, and supplier risk management.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute category strategies that improve sourcing of services and/or components to support on-going business, as well as new product design and development activities. Develop deep understanding of existing suppliers, future service, product and technology needs, and growth plans.
• Provide category knowledge and market expertise for assigned category/categories to cross-functional teams.
• Lead supplier selection activities in alignment with category strategies and business objectives.
• Manage all aspects of supplier relationships. Develop and manage strong supplier relationships to provide the best competitive advantage and utilization of the company's annual spending. Provide governance over key supplier relationships and lead supplier business reviews.
• Manage critical supplier projects, such as supplier service and/or capacity improvements.
• Direct/lead efforts to prevent and resolve complex supply chain issues.
• Develop and maintain material cost tracking models. Actively seek out and execute cost reduction opportunities. Generate and negotiate agreements to provide the lowest Total Cost of Ownership.
• Comply with all quality policies, while continuously identifying opportunities for improvement. Support the processes of ISO, ASI and other certifications deemed necessary by the business.
• Demonstrate support of CPC core values. Comply with all company policies and safety regulations.
• Perform other job duties as assigned to meet business needs.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Finance, or related field.
• 2+ years of related procurement, supplier relationship management, contract negotiation, and category management experience.
• 2+ years of experience working with new product development teams and developing supply and stocking strategies to support new product launches through product life cycle.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, as well as proven experience working one-on-one with suppliers, business units, engineering, and senior management (internally and suppliers).
• Creative problem solver. Able to analyze and resolve problems using initiative.
• Self-motivated and confident. Comfortable to work independently, as well as within cross-functional teams.
• Able to balance many tasks and conflicting priorities. Able to negotiate conflict.
• Astute organizational skills with drive to meet deliverables in a timely manner. Attention to detail and accuracy. High level of a sense of urgency.
• High degree of computer proficiency, including software applications of Microsoft Word, Outlook PowerPoint, and advanced Excel.
• Extensive category management experience with injection molded plastics and silicones, machined metals and plating, preferred.
• Experience working in a global, multi-site manufacturing company, preferred.
• Experience working in medical device or other regulated industry, preferred.
• Proficient skills navigating large-scale ERP systems and PowerBI; Oracle preferred.

Travel:

• Up to 20%

Why You'll Love Working Here

Our Culture

At CPC, our people aren't just employees, they're the driving force behind our success. We've built a culture rooted in respect, collaboration, and integrity, where every voice matters, and innovation thrives. It's not just us saying it; CPC has been recognized as a Top Workplace 5x in the past 6 years, because we genuinely care about our employees' growth, well-being, and success. This isn't just a workplace; it's a community where you'll feel valued, empowered, and inspired to do your best work every day.

Growth & Development

We invest in you . Whether you're looking to expand your skills, take on new challenges, or advance your career, we're here to support you. We offer:

• Mentorship, hands-on training, and career development opportunities to help you reach your full potential.
• Tuition Assistance to support continued education, plus scholarship programs for children of eligible employees.
• A Co-Op and intern program in partnership with several universities for hands-on industry experience.
• Recognition programs that celebrate your contributions, from employee loyalty awards to peer-to-peer recognition.

Because when you succeed, we all succeed.

Work/Life Balance

We get it – work is important, but so is life outside of it. That's why CPC ensures you have the time and flexibility to live, recharge, and give back. Our programs include:

• Multiple paid-time off programs, including PTO, company-paid holidays, bereavement leave, and paid volunteer time to support causes you care about.
• Paid Parental Leave so you can focus on what matters most.
• Wellness support, including access to in-person and online advisors for mental, financial, and overall well-being.

We believe that a balanced, fulfilled team creates the best workplace.

Benefits & Compensation

At CPC, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial security, and overall well-being, including but not limited to:

• Health & Wellness:
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision coverage starting day one for you and your family.
• Health Savings