Sourcing And Category Manager

Job Title:

Sourcing and Category Manager (Contract) Job Description The Sourcing and Category Manager (contractor) plays a critical role in developing and executing sourcing and category strategies that deliver measurable value to members and partners. This role goes beyond traditional sourcing by influencing strategy, driving innovation, and creating meaningful impact across the organization. The contractor leverages market insights, data-driven analysis, and best-in-class negotiation practices to optimize cost, reduce risk, and strengthen vendor partnerships. They collaborate closely with senior leaders and cross-functional teams, manage end-to-end sourcing projects, and build strong vendor relationships to support the company's mission and business objectives. Responsibilities Assist in the development and implementation of sourcing and category strategies that optimize cost, improve operations, and support overall company objectives. Analyze market trends, supplier capabilities, and cost drivers to design effective sourcing strategies, including appropriate contract terms and pricing models. Coordinate and execute end-to-end sourcing activities, from anticipating business needs through negotiation and final award, ensuring all agreed terms and concessions are accurately reflected in supplier contracts. Collaborate with business stakeholders to align sourcing plans with organizational goals, ensuring sourcing frameworks integrate seamlessly with project plans and P&L objectives. Apply best practices across multiple categories by leveraging data-driven approaches such as industry benchmarking, competitive analysis, and spend reporting. Manage sourcing projects using established processes and systems to ensure consistency, efficiency, and compliance with company standards and policies. Monitor vendor performance throughout the sourcing lifecycle and mitigate risks by ensuring proper documentation and adherence to business standards. Drive cost reduction initiatives in collaboration with stakeholders and track measurable outcomes through regular cadence meetings (weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly). Effectively manage multiple priorities and concurrent projects in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors and internal stakeholders to support win-win partnerships and long-term value creation. Essential Skills Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, or a related field, or equivalent experience. At least 4 years of experience in vendor management, procurement, or sourcing with a bachelor's degree, or at least 8 years of relevant experience without a degree. End-to-end sourcing experience, including negotiation through final award. Experience working with senior management across multiple teams and organizations. Strong understanding of contract lifecycle management and sourcing processes. Experience contributing to large, cross-functional projects and programs. Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills. Proficiency in vendor management tools and spend analysis. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Power BI. Experience with compliance frameworks and risk management practices, such as

ISO 27001, SOC

2, and HiTrust (experience with these frameworks is preferred). Ability to manage multiple priorities and cross-functional stakeholders effectively. Experience sourcing in the healthcare industry, particularly with vendor services such as Payment Integrity, Clinical Operations, STARS, Affordability, and Actuarial services, including technology platforms. Additional Skills & Qualifications Prior sales and customer-facing experience. Relevant sourcing certifications such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP). Project management certifications such as PMP or equivalent. Familiarity with procurement technologies and tools that support strategic sourcing and vendor management, such as ZIP Procurement. Experience with ERP tools such as ADP and Oracle. Demonstrated ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and solve complex sourcing and vendor management challenges. Work Environment This role follows a hybrid work model with an expectation to be onsite three days per week, typically Tuesday through Thursday, in the Minnetonka office. The environment is fast-paced and highly collaborative, with frequent interaction across senior leadership, cross-functional teams, and external vendors. The contractor uses a variety of technologies and tools, including vendor management systems, spend analysis platforms, Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Power BI, and procurement or ERP tools such as ZIP Procurement, ADP, and Oracle. The culture emphasizes data-driven decision-making, structured sourcing processes, and adherence to compliance and risk management frameworks. The role involves regular meetings and structured routines to track progress on sourcing projects, cost reduction initiatives, and vendor performance. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Hopkins, MN. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $42.70 - $67.11/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 hybrid position in Hopkins,MN.

Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Jun 22, 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® Platinum Award 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.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.