Job Information
Kohler Co. Category Leader, Marketing & Communications in Kohler, Wisconsin
Category Leader, Marketing & Communications
Work Mode: Hybrid
Location: Hybrid at Kohler, WI
Opportunity
Responsible for financial and operational performance within the Marketing and Communications category spend. Responsible for category performance globally, at a corporate level, for all business units. Accountable for all supplier selection decisions within category. Prepares and evaluates supplier quotations and services to determine most competitive solution based upon a total cost of ownership. Responsible for financial and contractual negotiations within category. Relies on extensive industry knowledge, experience, and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Responsible for setting performance objectives and strategy within category. Conducts multi-functional supplier performance management reviews. A wide degree of creativity and latitude is required.
Specific Responsibilities
Manage the design and implementation of Category Strategy
Lead strategy development through team formation, research, evaluation, and execution
Deliver on risk reduction and increases to service levels
Understand and incorporate industry direction and best practice
Manage key existing vendor relationships and performance
Evaluate and support the additions of new agencies and partners as needed
Guide and mentor peers on strategy and industry best practice
Identify, plan, and execute projects and initiatives focused on achieving TCO reduction goals
Proactively identify future areas of opportunity to address cost, building a pipeline of value to be executed through a variety of professional sourcing approaches
Work closely with and drive supplier VAVE / ideation for cost and value potential
Drive cross-functional engagement
Manage and defend against unforeseen cost increases using various negotiation tactics to minimize unfavorable impacts to Kohler
Support strategic project execution
Strategize and manage the approach to agreement renewals
Cross-functional RFx development, roll-out, and evaluation; including supplier selection, proposal analysis, and negotiation
Raise demand management considerations to ensure effective and efficient spending
Identify contractual needs and establish agreements that accommodate
Support (and contribute to) internal stakeholder timelines and budgets
Skills/Requirements
Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing, Supply Chain, Operations, Business or Engineering
Minimum 13 years of professional experience and 8 years of Marketing purchasing experience
Significant experience leading negotiations and contract management with agencies of all sizes
Experience managing spend and creating category strategies related to activities including but not limited to tradeshows, media, displays, merchandise, partnerships, video production, etc.
Experience utilizing supplier management and contract management systems (Jaggaer preferred)
Applicants must be authorized to work in the US without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.
The salary range for this position is $98,900 - $125,600. The specific salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors including the candidate’s experience, their education, and the work location. Available benefits include medical, dental, vision & 401k.
Why Work at Kohler Co.?
Kohler Co.'s mission is to contribute to a higher level of gracious living for those who are touched by our products and services. We understand that it takes investment in our associates’ development to make that happen. So, we offer ongoing investment in each individual’s personal development and the opportunity to collaborate with others across functions and roles at Kohler.
In addition to the investment in your development, Kohler offers a benefits package including a competitive salary, health, vision, dental, 401(k) with company matching, and more!
*Important update for candidates applying to roles within Kohler Energy, including Power Systems, Engines, Home Energy, Kohler Uninterruptible Power, Clarke Energy, Curtis Instruments, and Heila Technologies.
On November 6, Kohler Co. announced the strategic decision to establish Kohler Energy as a separate, independent business with Platinum Equity as the majority investment partner. Kohler will continue to stay invested in the Energy business following the closing and remains committed to supporting the acceleration of long-term growth strategies for both organizations. Talent and operational transition plans are underway, and Kohler Co. and Platinum Equity expect the agreement to close in the first half of 2024.Thank you for your interest in joining our growing team as we embark on the next phase of growth!
About Us
Beyond the competitive benefits and compensation, Kohler proudly offers a rich history, steeped in creativity and a commitment to our associates and communities. We invite you to learn more about our culture and company at www.kohlercompany.com .
It is Kohler’s policy to recruit, hire, and promote qualified personnel in all job classifications without regard to race, creed, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran. If, as an individual with a disability, you need reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact kohlerjobs@kohler.com . Kohler Co. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.
We invite you to learn more about equal employment opportunity by reviewing the FederalEEO is the Law (https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf) and theEEO is the Law Supplement (https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf) .