Associate Category Manager Global Procurement

Job Description

As our go-to expert for Logistics sourcing, you’ll own categories like robotics, automation and material handling equipment. You’ll collaborate with a network of cross-functional teams to drive cost savings, negotiate with top-tier vendors, and ensure our logistics network is lean, agile, and ready for anything.

• Own and develop category strategies for logistics activities including robotics, automation and material handling equipment, grounded in data, forecasts, and stakeholder needs.
• Lead full-cycle sourcing initiatives (RFI/RFQ/RFP) globally — managing the projects from strategy and execution to vendor selection and contract closeout.
• Drive strategic decision-making by evaluating leasing vs buying options for Capital Expenditures (CAPEX) to achieve the best financial outcome.
• Act as the category expert—track industry trends, evaluate supplier capabilities, and continuously refine sourcing strategies to align with business goals.
• Drive supplier performance through KPIs, operational scorecards, and relationship management (SRM).
• Partner cross-functionally with Finance, Legal, and Logistics teams to align sourcing activities with company objectives.
• Influence and negotiate at all levels, from frontline suppliers to senior stakeholders, ensuring best-in-class deals and sustainable partnerships.
• Contribute to strategic planning by supporting budgeting, forecasting, and logistics roadmap development.

You're strategic, curious, and ready to lead with a category mindset—always thinking bigger than just the next sourcing event. You thrive on complexity, excel at building relationships, and see Procurement as a strategic lever for business impact.

• 3-5 years of strategic sourcing experience (bonus if it’s in logistics or supply chain categories)
• A bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Finance, or a related field is required; an MBA is preferred
• Top-notch negotiation skills and the ability to influence across all levels
• Strong financial acumen and analytical skills (Excel is your playground)
• Clear, confident communication skills and executive presence
• Experience working independently and managing multiple priorities
• Experience developing contracts in partnership with Legal and Risk Management

• CPG industry experience
• Familiarity with procurement platforms (Coupa, CSO, Oracle, Infor Nexus)
• Spanish fluency (written and verbal)
• CPM or equivalent certification
• Willingness to travel up to 10%
• Demonstrated a growth mindset by staying curious and continuously learning, embracing challenges, and improving themselves.

* The pay range is indicative of projected hiring range, however base pay will be determined based on a candidate’s work location, skills and experience. Mattel offers competitive total pay programs, comprehensive benefits, and resources to help empower a culture where every employee can reach their full potential.

Don’t meet every single requirement? At Mattel, we are dedicated to an inclusive workplace and a culture of belonging. If you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we still encourage you to apply. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles. Join Mattel's Talent Community and start receiving exciting updates about our company, our employees, and our culture.

Also, interested in signing up for job alerts? Do so here!

We are a purpose driven company aiming to empower generations to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential. We live up to our purpose employing the following behaviors:

• We collaborate: Being a part of Mattel means being part of one team with shared values and common goals. Every person counts and working closely together always brings better results. Partnership is our process and our collective capabilities is our superpower.
• We innovate: At Mattel we always aim to find new and better ways to create innovative products and experiences. No matter where you work in the organization, you can always make a difference and have real impact. We welcome new…