Category Manager – Remote

About the role

In this role, you will handle sourcing and vendor management for key spend categories which may include technology, travel, merchandise, and professional services. You’ll negotiate contracts, manage supplier relationships, run competitive sourcing events, and develop strategies that support business goals.

• Negotiate, draft, and review complex contracts, amendments, SOWs, and other sourcing documents.
• Interpret contractual terms, advise on risks, and partner closely with Legal.
• Lead RFPs, competitive bids, pricing reviews, and market analysis.
• Build sourcing strategies, conduct supplier evaluations, and handle the end to end sourcing process.
• Partner with internal business partners to implement consistent vendor management practices.
• Monitor vendor performance to ensure service quality, pricing, and delivery.
• Help to improve internal processes and contribute to overall sourcing and vendor strategies.
• Develop strong cross functional relationships and understand business needs.
• Handle contract renewals, negotiations, and term notifications.
• Create purchase orders and support procurement needs as required.

Here’s what some of our employees have to say about why they work at Symetra:

“If you want to work for a company that is always considering its employees while working towards sustainable growth this is that company. Within Symetra, there is always innovation, empowerment, and growth opportunities, all while providing us with a great work/life balance and incredible benefits for a very reasonable cost!” - Cindy J. G., Sr. Product Owner

“We're big enough to make an impact on the country, but small enough to care and know who you are and what you're contributing to the organization. All new ideas are welcome!” - Stephanie

F., VP Customer Service & Operations

We don’t take a “one-size-fits-all” approach when it comes to our employees. Our programs are designed to make your life better both at work and at home.

• Flexible full-time or hybrid telecommuting arrangements
• Plan for your future with our 401(k) plan and take advantage of immediate vesting and company matching up to 6%
• Paid time away including vacation and sick time, flex days and ten paid holidays
• Give back to your community and double your impact through our company matching
• Want more details? Check out our Symetra Benefits Overview

Salary Range: $87,900 – $146,500 plus eligibility for annual bonus program

• High school diploma required; bachelor’s degree preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in sourcing, procurement, or vendor management.
• Relevant certifications (CPM, CSMP, CSM, PMP, Six Sigma) preferred.
• Strong negotiator with excellent analytical, communication, and project management skills.
• Strategic, collaborative, and effective in fast paced, complex environments.
• Passionate about accuracy, building strong connections, and comfortable influencing others.

At Symetra, we aspire to be the most inclusive insurance company in the country. We're building a place where every employee feels valued, respected, and has opportunities to contribute.

Inclusion is about recognizing our assumptions, considering multiple perspective, and removing barriers. We accept and celebrate diverse experiences, identities, and perspectives, because lifting each other up fuels thought and builds a stronger, more innovative company. We invite you to learn more about our efforts here.

Symetra is a national financial services company dedicated to helping people achieve their financial goals and feel confident about the future. In our daily work, we're guided by the principles of Value, Transparency and Sustainability. This means we provide products and services people need at a competitive price, we communicate clearly and openly so people understand what they're buying, and we design products— and operate our company— to stand the test of time.

We're committed to showing up for our communities, lifting up our employees, and standing up for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Join our team and help…