Category Manager

Category Manager – POET

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POET's mission is to be good stewards of the Earth by converting renewable resources to energy and other valuable goods as effectively as humanly possible.

For over thirty-five years, our drive and passion to change the world has enabled us to become the largest producer and marketer of bioethanol and a leader in sustainable products in the world.

As a Category Manager, you will be responsible for strategic sourcing of assigned products for POET Bioprocessing and POET Design & Construction. You will manage vendor relationships, negotiate the best value for POET, perform strategic analysis and be responsible for decision‑making. You will become highly knowledgeable in your categories and ensure appropriate risk management through thorough execution.

Key responsibilities include:

• Fostering relationships with strategic suppliers to create innovative and collaborative partnerships.
• Driving long‑term strategies to generate supply chain improvements and efficiencies.
• Supporting strategies and processes to maintain optimum inventory levels that serve the production process.
• Leading, negotiating, and administering contracts with suppliers, vendors, and other representatives to drive best value.
• Evaluating and monitoring contract performance to ensure compliance with contractual obligations.
• Maintaining and supporting risk management strategies.
• Researching and evaluating suppliers based on cost, service, quality, supply capability, and innovation.
• Maintaining a continuous improvement mindset.
• Developing strong relationships with key stakeholders and understanding their priorities.
• Continuously striving for better service and greater value for our stakeholders.
• Possibly leading a small team of direct reports or influencing an individual‑contributor role.
• Partnering with other procurement team members to ensure accurate and timely delivery with excellent customer service to stakeholders across the organization.
• Potentially applying skills to other areas as needed.

• Degree in business or technical field and 2+ years related experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience negotiating and managing contracts.
• Demonstrated leadership, negotiation, and relationship‑building skills.
• Comfortable presenting in front of business leaders.

• Ability to navigate ambiguity and prioritize effectively.
• Strong interpersonal skills and professionalism.
• Strong strategic and analytical skills, including complex analysis.
• Excellent written and oral communication, decision‑making, and problem‑solving abilities.
• Excellent organizational and time‑management skills and adaptability.
• Positive, honest, and concise communication.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.
• Eagerness to learn and change the world.

• Up to 20% travel required, which may include vendor visits, continuing education, and conferences.
• This position is office‑based, working at a personal computer where you may sit or stand. The Sioux Falls office workspace is an open‑concept design intended to promote open communication and collaboration.

• Comprehensive benefits package: individual and family plans for health, dental, and vision insurance, including a generous employer Health Savings Account contribution.
• Quarterly profit‑sharing bonuses and bi‑annual incentive bonuses.
• Competitive pay, including shift premium pay for qualifying positions.
• 401K with company match.
• Paid time off and paid holidays – 40 hours available on day one.
• Paid parental leave.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Attractive relocation assistance and bonus programs for qualifying positions and/or locations.

• A multifaceted wellness program encompassing mental, physical, and spiritual health.
• On‑site fitness centers or fitness reimbursements.
• Safety and cold‑weather gear reimbursements.
• Discounted home and auto insurance.

POET is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to maintaining a workplace free from discrimination and harassment. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, abilities, merit, and other legitimate business factors, without regard to any legally protected characteristic. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits, working conditions, promotion, and termination.