Regional Category Manager - MRO (m/f/d)

Ready to take your procurement expertise to the next level on a global stage? The Category Manager is responsible for strategically managing all EMEA’s MRO activities – negotiating agreements that optimize the total value for PPG in compliance with established purchasing policies.  They will be responsible for overseeing projects and supplier relationships. This role will support the development of Global and EMEA strategies, conduct RFPs, lead the selection of suppliers, define the implementation strategy and monitor compliance. The Category Manager plays a critical role developing and implementing sourcing strategies, with a global or/and regional perspective, to strategically source the following areas: MRO (eg Production Consumables) PPE, Workwear If you're a skilled negotiator with a strategic mindset and a passion for delivering measurable results, this is your opportunity to make a significant impact in a global, innovation-driven company. Principal Accountabilities: Provide strategic direction for the global or regional MRO procurement strategy working directly with Functional stakeholders and Procurement team within EMEA region and where applicable between the regions (Americas, EMEA, APAC) to drive and influence best practices. Prepare annual category plans to align the regions and countries. Develop global or regional strategic sourcing projects (where applicable) for critical categories using the strategic sourcing process. Identify and implement solutions to drive incremental cost reductions and cost avoidance opportunities through category knowledge by researching and understanding industry trends at the regional and global level. Work closely with the relevant Functional teams and the Local Buyers in each region and country to assess, optimize and implement bid projects that align with Operations and Engineering Teams and other key functions strategic roadmap. Develop communication reviews with leadership, reviewing critical suppliers, upcoming projects and an understanding of the forward business needs. Additional Responsibilities: Collaborate closely with Strategic Business Units, Functional Teams, and Procurement partners to understand requirements and resolve issues in a timely manner. Utilize various purchasing electronic tools including spend management software to submit RFIs, RFPs, Reverse auctions to strategically source global suppliers. Continually evaluate supplier performance with a global viewpoint to identify opportunities for cost savings and improvements. Configuring performance management of critical suppliers. Ensure purchasing function is carried out in an ethical and professional manner. Foster and utilize world class purchasing practices that comply with all PPG’s Corporate Purchasing Policies.

Knowledge: 5+ years of experience in Manufacturing related Services strategic sourcing and management. 2+ years of experience in regional or global project management with proven records of accomplishment. Proficiency with establishing contracts, monitoring performance and issue resolution.

Ability to act with autonomy. Proactive, hands-on and results-oriented. Embraces getting the job done and is a finisher / completer. Ability to influence and manage conflicts throughout the global organization. Structured in initiating and leading change through cross-functional teams. Ability to analyze data and to apply strategic frameworks for continual development. Strong purchasing and project leadership skills. Ability to use relevant tools to create reverse auctions and RFPs and manage vendor responses and bids to help maximize value. Ability to speak effectively before groups of vendors, customers, or employees of the organization. Willing to travel 20% of the time. How we work: At PPG, we bring teams together to accelerate collaboration and career development, with in-person work Monday through Thursday and the opportunity to work remotely on Flexible Fridays.