Indirect Category Manager (IT & Marketing)

American Residential Services is seeking an Indirect Category Manager to lead the strategy and execution for purchasing indirect goods and services, focusing on IT hardware, IT software, and marketing services. The role involves collaborating with various teams to create sourcing strategies that reduce costs and support business growth while managing supplier performance and development.

Responsibilities:

• Set and lead procurement strategy
• Own the overall sourcing strategy for IT and marketing categories
• Understand total spend, pricing models, contracts, and market trends
• Track supplier markets and anticipate changes that may impact ARS
• Meet or exceed cost‑reduction goals tied to indirect spend
• Evaluate and approve suppliers, set supplier strategy, and negotiate complex contracts
• Ensure suppliers deliver competitive pricing, sufficient capacity, reliable lead times, and strong performance
• Lead efforts to improve supplier efficiency, accountability, and lean practices
• Partner with leaders across IT, Marketing, Finance, Operations, and other teams
• Lead cross‑functional initiatives to identify, onboard, and implement new suppliers or processes
• Support new product launches by aligning procurement and supplier strategies
• Analyze costs, pricing, and financial data to support negotiations and cost‑reduction initiatives
• Monitor performance metrics and continuously improve sourcing outcomes
• Set priorities and direction for the procurement team
• Drive performance through coaching, goal‑setting, and development
• Support budgeting, operating plans, and monthly business reviews
• Ensure consistent, effective communication across ARS

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, or a related field
• 8+ years of progressive, strategic procurement experience
• Strong expertise in IT and Marketing procurement (experience in additional categories is a plus)
• Strategic thinker who understands how procurement supports overall business goals
• Proven ability to deliver meaningful cost savings and innovative sourcing solutions
• Strong leadership and influencing skills, with experience working in a matrixed organization
• Excellent communication and presentation skills at all levels
• Advanced analytical, financial, and contract‑management skills
• Up to 25% travel required