Category Leader - Decatur, IL

Job description

Job Description Category Leader - Decatur, IL Position Summary: The MRO Services Category Leader is responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies, supplier performance programs, and cost optimization initiatives across Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) service categories. This role drives stakeholder alignment, manages key supplier relationships, and ensures compliance with internal policies and operational requirements. The ideal candidate combines deep market knowledge with strong procurement, contract negotiation, and strategic leadership skills. A primary focus of this role is the strategic management of contractor labor categories, including time-and-materials (T&M) rate structures, per diem models, and other variable labor arrangements. The Category Manager partners closely with Operations, EHS, Legal, HR, and Finance to align procurement strategies with operational, safety, and financial objectives. It requires strong leadership, influencing capability, and ownership for delivering measurable value, ensuring contract compliance, and driving supplier performance. The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience negotiating and managing contractor labor ag...