NiSource · 10 hours ago
Senior Category Specialist
NiSource is a public utility company focused on providing continuous service to customers. The Senior Category Specialist is responsible for supporting category management and supplier relationship management functions, optimizing supply chain operations, and mentoring team members.
BiofuelEnergyNatural Resources
Responsibilities
Leads category-level analysis to identify performance trends, operational inefficiencies, and strategic opportunities
Support and may lead end-to-end category performance analysis, identifying opportunities for cost reduction, service improvement, and operational efficiency
Leads strategic sourcing and RFx events for medium to large and complex projects. Subject matter expert in strategic sourcing for assigned categories. Supports other Category Analysts and Manager with sourcing activities
Strong communication skills with the ability to utilize data and insights to tell a story that drives value. Ability to communication with senior leaders across the business
Participates in and supports performance and process improvement initiatives defined by the category plan including strategic sourcing and other initiatives in support of supply chain excellence
Ability to lead and develop medium level negotiation plans and understands negotiation levers to achieve the best outcomes. Participates in more complex negotiations as directed by Category Manager
Collaborate with key stakeholders to align category strategies with broader supply chain objectives
Drive root cause analysis and resolution of supply chain disruptions, implementing sustainable corrective actions
Drive and support strategic initiatives such as network optimization, inventory modeling, and scenario planning
Review and analyze raw data to build cost models (using spreadsheets, organizing data, creating graphs) and identify savings / avoidance opportunities
Analyze data and create reports and presentations regarding key business measures such as supplier performance, spend analytics and market trends
Review, analyze, and approve purchase requests with established suppliers
Understand savings and operational targets and develop / execute on plans to deliver on targets
Other duties as assigned
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's Degree Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Law, or related field (JD or Master's preferred) OR 4+ years of experience
1-3 years' experience in supply chain, procurement or category management
3-4 years of experience in category or contract management or procurement, preferably within a supply chain environment
Ability to define problems, collect and analyze data, establish facts, and draw well-supported conclusions
Knowledge and understanding of sourcing methodologies
Ability to manage multiple commodities or work streams
Proven negotiation skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, word, etc.)
Planning and organizational skills
Critical/analytical thinking skills
Ability to support a positive work environment/work collaboratively
Ability to execute and drive results while gaining commitment from others
Ability to establish plans and meet deadlines
Ability to adapt quickly to change
Demonstrated ability to deliver results, achieve goals and business objectives
Advanced Excel/modeling capabilities
Basic knowledge of contract management & administration
Ability to manage and mitigate contractual risk
Knowledge of procurement/ERP software (PeopleSoft, Ariba, or similar)
Demonstrated ability to complete projects and tasks with minimal oversight and direction
Ability to build strategic working relationships
Preferred
Supply chain experience in the utility industry
CPSM Upon Hire
Company
NiSource
NiSource helps energize the lives of its nearly 4 million natural gas and electric customers across seven states.
Funding
Current Stage
Public CompanyTotal Funding
$2.6B2025-10-31Post Ipo Equity· $1.5B
2023-06-08Post Ipo Debt· $750M
2022-06-10Post Ipo Debt· $350M
Recent News
2025-11-01
2025-10-31
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