Strategic Sourcing Category Manager I

Scottsdale, AZ
Marketplace Operations – Procurement /
Full Time /
Hybrid
Lessen is one of the fastest growing companies in the real estate services industry.  Our proprietary technology platform provides clients with portfolio dashboards, the ability to review and approve project estimates, check in on project progress in real time and pay vendors all in one place!  But we aren’t just a tech company.  We are also a property service delivery company offering renovations, turns and maintenance to residential and commercial clients.  Lessen recently acquired SMS Assist, an industry-leading facilities maintenance technology and delivery company. The new combined national footprint will serve more than 250,000 properties, facilitate approximately 2.5 million repair and maintenance orders, and complete nearly 20,000 renovation and turn projects per year.  Lessen has quickly evolved from exciting startup to valued partner, delivering scalable and turnkey property services to our clients.

We are looking for a Strategic Sourcing Category Manager to join our team as a key member of the Supply Chain Team. This role is essential for ensuring that the organization's procurement activities align with its strategic goals, deliver cost savings, and maintain high-quality standards.
 
As a Strategic Sourcing Category Manager, you will play a pivotal role in managing and optimizing the procurement of goods and services within a specific category to support the organization's overall objectives. You will be responsible for supporting the development and execution of  category-specific strategies to drive cost savings, supplier performance, and supply chain efficiency.

What You'll Do:

    • Supplier Management: Identify, evaluate, and manage supplier relationships within the designated category to ensure performance, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
    • Cost Reduction: Implement cost-saving initiatives, negotiate favorable terms with suppliers, and continually monitor category-related expenses to achieve cost reduction targets.
    • Market Analysis: Stay updated on market trends, pricing, and innovations within the category that is supporting to make informed decisions.
    • Risk Management: Identify and mitigate potential risks associated with the category, such as supply chain disruptions, quality issues, or regulatory compliance.
    • Contract Management: Draft, negotiate, and manage contracts with suppliers to ensure they align with the organization's needs and standards.
    • Performance Metrics: Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure and report on category performance, supplier performance, and cost savings.
    • Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment and effective execution of category strategies.
    • Continuous Improvement: Continuously assess and enhance category management processes and practices to optimize performance and efficiency.
    • Compliance: Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards in all procurement and category-related activities.
    • #IND2

You Should Have:

    • Bachelor's degree in business, supply chain management, construction management or a related field. 
    • 6 years of work experience or relevant experience.
    • Proven experience in category management, construction procurement, or supply chain management, preferably in a strategic role.
    • Experience with negotiation and contract management skills.
    • Analytical skills to assess market trends and make data-driven decisions.
    • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work with internal teams and external suppliers.

    • Preferred Requirements:
    • Certification in procurement (e.g., CSCP, CPM, or CPSM)
    • Lean & Six Sigma Certification 
    • Knowledge of reading construction plans

Why Lessen:
·        Competitive compensation
·        Dental, Vision, Life, Disability options
·        401K retirement savings plan
·        Paid vacation, federal and floating holidays
·        Maternity/Paternity Pay
·        Career advancement opportunities
·        All the tools you’ll need to be successful

Lessen is intentional about attracting, developing, and retaining amazing talent from diverse backgrounds. We’re looking for teammates that are enthusiastic, empathetic, curious, motivated, reliable, and will help us amplify the positive & inclusive culture we’ve been building.  Lessen is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.