Category Manager

Job Title:

Category Manager Job Description We are seeking an experienced contractor to support category management, procurement processes, and data operations across Marketing and Data Partnerships. This role requires strong analytical ability, vendor management support experience, and familiarity with procurement systems and data workflows. The position is located in Illinois and is onsite. Responsibilities Document consistent, high-level frameworks for improved category innovations under guidance from the category leader. Manage vendor rebate/reconciliation and savings calculations. Oversee intake and tracking of zero dollar data usage agreements between Marketing or Data partners. Support savings tracking administration, data validation, and reporting within a finance system. Develop and maintain operational playbooks; support media operations for in-house agency initiatives. Review Market Research scopes and identify incremental value opportunities. Assist with standing up simple contracts with digital media vendors. Improve data quality and systems workflows for in-house scope management tool. Other strategic or operational projects as assigned. Essential Skills Experience in category management or procurement operations. Strong analytical and data validation skills. Prior exposure to marketing/data vendors or industries preferred. Experience with procurement systems (e.g., Agency Mania or similar). Ability to manage multiple priorities and work cross-functionally. Additional Skills & Qualifications Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Business Analytics, or Finance. Procurement, Category management, Negotiation, Contract, Strategic sourcing, Vendor management, Purchase order, Marketing, Indirect procurement. Five years of managing shipping logistics experience, preferably in a biotech environment. Familiarity with

IATA / DOT

practices and procedures is a plus. Five years of inventory management experience, preferably in a biotech environment. Effective communication and coordination skills are essential. Ability to multi-task and execute job requirements with minimal direction. Procurement/Operation/Supply chain certifications are a plus. Work Environment The work environment consists of a team-oriented, cross-functional setting with an open workspace. The role is onsite with flexible working hours from 8:30 AM, Monday through Friday. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Mettawa, IL. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $58.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Mettawa,IL.

Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Apr 21, 2026.

About Aston Carter:

Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® double diamond winner for both client and talent service. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com for other accommodation options.