Purchasing Strategic Category Manager - Freight

HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT

SG 11

We're looking for a strategic and analytical Purchasing Strategic Category Manager - Freight to join our procurement team in Fort Mill, United States. In this role, you will lead the development and execution of strategic sourcing initiatives within the transportation category. You will drive cost optimization, supplier performance, and operational excellence while managing complex vendor relationships and ensuring alignment with organizational objectives.

• Develop and implement strategic sourcing strategies for the transportation category to optimize costs, quality, and service levels
• Analyze market trends, carrier performance data, and logistics costs to identify opportunities for savings and process improvements
• Manage the complete procurement lifecycle, including RFQ/RFP development, vendor evaluation, contract negotiation, and supplier selection
• Build and maintain strong relationships with transport carriers and logistics providers, supporting regular performance reviews and addressing service issues
• Monitor and analyze freight spending patterns, carrier performance metrics, and KPIs to ensure compliance with service level agreements
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders across logistics, finance to align freight procurement strategies with business needs
• Negotiate contracts and pricing agreements with carriers while ensuring favorable terms and conditions
• Identify and mitigate supply chain risks related to transportation services
• Lead cross-functional projects to optimize freight operations, reduce transportation costs, and improve delivery performance
• Maintain detailed records of RFQ documents, contracts, and procurement activities using procurement systems and tools
• Stay current with industry trends, regulatory changes, and best practices in freight procurement and supply chain management

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE ROLE

• Bachelors Degree PLUS 5+ years of experience in strategic procurement, category management, or supply chain management OR 10+ years of experience if no Bachelor's Degree
• Proven expertise in logistics operations or logistics procurement
• Strong vendor management and negotiation skills with demonstrated success in contract management
• Advanced analytical and data analysis capabilities with proficiency in cost modeling and spend analysis
• Experience with procurement systems, ERP software, and data analytics tools
• Excellent project management skills with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously
• Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities
• Proficiency in budget management and financial analysis
• Detail-oriented approach with strong organizational skills
• Continental is able to offer relocation assistance for this position.
• Legal Authorization to work in the US is required. Continental is able to offer visa support for internals individuals who currently hold an existing valid employment visa.

ADDITIONAL WAYS TO STAND OUT

• Knowledge of freight logistics operations, carrier types, and transportation modes
• Familiarity with RFQ/RFP processes and vendor evaluation methodologies
• Background in supply chain risk management and mitigation strategies
• Experience with continuous improvement methodologies or process optimization initiatives
• Familiarity with transportation management systems (TMS) or logistics software

THE PERKS 

• Immediate Benefits 
• Robust Total Rewards Package
• Paid Time Off
• Volunteer Time Off
• Tuition Assistance
• Employee Discounts, including tire discounts
• Competitive Bonus Programs
• Employes 401k Match
• Diverse & Inclusive Work Environment with 20+ Employee Resource groups.
• Hybrid Work 
• Employee Assistance Program
• Future Growth Opportunities, including personal and professional
• And many more benefits that come with working for a global industry leader!

EEO-Statement:

EEO / Disabled / Protected Veteran Employer. Continental offers equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals, without regard to unlawful consideration to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. In addition, as a federal contractor, Continental complies with government regulations, including affirmative action responsibilities for qualified individuals with a disability and protected veterans, where they apply. To be considered, you must apply for a specific position for which Continental has a current posted job opening. Qualifying applications will be considered only for the specific opening(s) to which you apply. If you would like to be considered for additional or future job openings, we encourage you to reapply for other opportunities as they become available. Further, Continental provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance in the application process, please reply to Careers@conti-na.com or contact US Recruiting at 800-821-2727. This telephone line and email address are reserved solely for job seekers with disabilities requesting accessibility assistance or an accommodation in the job application process. Please do not call about the status of your job application, if you do not require accessibility assistance or an accommodation. Messages left for other purposes, such as following up on an application or non-disability related technical issues, will not receive a call back.

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THE COMPANY

Continental is a leading tire manufacturer and industry specialist. Founded in 1871, the company generated sales of €19.7 billion in 2025 and currently employs around 78,000 people in 54 countries and markets.

Tire solutions from the Tires group sector make mobility safer, smarter, and more sustainable. Its premium portfolio encompasses car, truck, bus, two-wheel, and specialty tires as well as smart solutions and services for fleets and tire retailers. Continental has been delivering top performance for more than 150 years and is one of the world’s largest tire manufacturers. In fiscal 2025, the Tires group sector generated sales of 13.8 billion euros. Continental's tire division employs more than 56,000 people worldwide and has 19 production and 16 development sites.