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Category Manager

  • Job
    Full-time
    Expert Level
  • Logistics
    IT & Cybersecurity

AI generated summary

  • You need 10+ years in sourcing, 2+ in category management, 5+ in tech sourcing (SaaS, Cloud), advanced Excel skills, strong communication, and a relevant degree or MBA.
  • You will manage supplier relationships, negotiate deals, navigate a complex sourcing environment, oversee the sourcing process, and guide less experienced colleagues while collaborating with various internal partners.

Requirements

  • 10+ years of sourcing/purchasing/supply chain experience and Including vender negations
  • 2+ years of that time supporting/leading within a category-management approach
  • 2+ years of that time supporting/leading a Technology category and/or supplier relationship
  • Moderate to advanced Excel skills to enable deal analysis, cost-benefit, proposal normalization and comparison, etc.
  • Effective at managing your own calendar, prioritizing relationship-building and driving maximum value, eliminating unnecessary or counterproductive activities
  • Ability to network internally and externally in a global company/supply base
  • High level of executive communication; able to tell a story to an audience of decision makers, utilizing data and boiling down complex information to key points
  • General/personal interest in technology
  • Flexible attitude, willing to dig into details when necessary while balancing several competing priorities
  • Bachelor’s degree in relevant area such as, but not limited to, Business Management, Economics, Supply Chain, Information Systems or relevant work experience
  • MBA or related graduate degree may be considered in lieu of years of experience
  • 5+ years leading a technology-category sourcing strategy
  • Expertise in SaaS, Infrastructure, Data Analytics, Cloud or related technology category

Responsibilities

  • Work collaboratively as a key member of the Technology Sourcing team
  • Act as subject-matter expert from a Sourcing perspective for your category, managing related supplier relationships and key internal relationships with product owners, project managers and key executives within the various business areas of the Company
  • Negotiate a range of deals in the category as the primary commercial voice of the Company with a variety of suppliers from startups to global technology leaders
  • Build transparent and supportive relationships with multiple technologists across the Company, providing your expertise in the commercial space to support their operational efforts
  • Navigate a highly matrixed Sourcing organization and stakeholder environment across several segments and business areas
  • Develop and run all steps in the sourcing process (e.g. RFI, RFP, POC, supplier analysis, contracting, etc.)
  • Closely collaborate with partners across the Company such as Legal, Vendor Management, IT Security, other Sourcing teams, etc.
  • Provide leadership by example to Sourcing colleagues with less experience; this is a high-level individual-contributor role

FAQs

What is the primary responsibility of a Category Manager at Disney?

The primary responsibility is to develop and implement strategic category strategies for various technology categories, while managing supplier relationships and engaging with internal stakeholders.

What qualifications are required for this role?

Candidates should have 10+ years of sourcing/purchasing/supply chain experience, including vendor negotiations, and at least 2 years of experience within a category-management approach, specifically in a Technology category.

Is there a specific educational background preferred for applicants?

Yes, a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant area such as Business Management, Economics, Supply Chain, or Information Systems is preferred. An MBA or related graduate degree may also be considered in lieu of years of experience.

How many years of experience in technology-category sourcing strategy is preferred?

A preferred qualification is having 5+ years of experience leading a technology-category sourcing strategy.

What skills are essential for success in this role?

Essential skills include advanced Excel skills, effective relationship management, high-level executive communication, and the ability to navigate a complex, matrixed environment.

What types of technology categories will the Category Manager handle?

The Category Manager will handle technology categories such as SaaS, Infrastructure, Data Analytics, Cloud, and other related areas.

Are there opportunities for career development in this position?

Yes, the role provides opportunities for leadership by example and the chance to mentor less experienced sourcing colleagues.

What is the work environment like for this position?

The role involves daily engagement with both internal stakeholders and external suppliers within a highly matrixed sourcing organization.

Does the role require interaction with other teams?

Yes, the Category Manager will collaborate closely with partners across the Company, including Legal, Vendor Management, IT Security, and other sourcing teams.

What kind of compensation and benefits package does Disney offer?

Disney offers a rewards package that includes health and savings benefits, educational opportunities, and unique perks only Disney can provide.

Entertainment & Media
Industry
10,001+
Employees

Mission & Purpose

From classic animated features and exhilarating theme park attractions to cutting edge sports coverage, and the hottest shows on television, The Walt Disney Company has been making magic since 1923, creating unforgettable stories that connect with audiences around the world. And we’re just getting started! The key to our success…. The Cast, Crew, Imagineers and Employees who honor Disney’s rich legacy by stretching the bounds of imagination to create the never-before-seen, bringing unparalleled entertainment experiences to people of all ages. Begin a career that delivers unparalleled creative content and experiences to audiences around the world and just imagine the stories you could be part of… What is #LifeAtDisney like? It’s a series of magical moments with cast members and employees developing and telling our stories in the most innovative ways. Whether it’s a day spent as a Disney VoluntEAR, or celebrating the release of a new interactive experience, retail product or movie, our days are filled with the knowledge that we are creating entertainment experiences the whole family can enjoy. Follow @DisneyCareers on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for a peek behind-the-curtain, and discover how you could connect to a world of stories with Disney!