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Job Summary

The incumbent supports the analytical activities required to deliver category management strategies and manage strategic sourcing events end-to-end. The role also monitors key contract delivery, captures financial benefits through negotiated contract terms and conditions, and supports supplier performance monitoring. Working with the Category Manager, the incumbent analyzes and presents data during the baseline, strategize and deliver phases of the category management process; develops sourcing project plans; prepares procurement process documentation; and manages sourcing events through evaluation and final recommendation. The incumbent ensures processes follow CN Procurement Policy and secures the appropriate approvals, as required. The General Supplies and Facilities Management category manages a diverse vendor base involved in supplying MRO items, goods, and services that support the operation, maintenance, and safety of CN buildings and infrastructure. Services include HVAC, electrical and water/plumbing systems, roofing and building fabric, janitorial services, construction management services, and turnkey construction projects. Close collaboration with internal stakeholders and vendors is required to help ensure CN operations remain uninterrupted.

Main Responsibilities

• Execute category management strategies in collaboration with cross-functional teams
• Develop, maintain, and enhance CN’s approach to the supply market
• Contribute to demand planning and forecasting activities
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to assess, prioritize, and optimize CapEx investment projects
• Assess new market entrants and non-traditional suppliers
• Perform detailed category analysis to understand market trends, cost drivers, suppliers, and best practices
• Provide input to value propositions and sourcing options by leveraging techniques such as total cost of ownership (TCO) modelling
• Develop and recommend commercial and contracting strategies
• Support the sourcing process, including RFx activities and evaluation
• Participate in the adoption and advancement of sustainable procurement practices
• Support contract development and negotiation, focusing on risk management, best-in-class terms and conditions, and appropriate schedule utilization
• Support supplier performance and relationship management to drive overall contract value and ensure key elements of the original category strategy are achieved through supplier performance management
• Monitor contract conditions for supplier adherence, including supporting the rate validation process and following up with suppliers
• Coach business unit contract owners to drive contract performance and compliance
• Work with Buyers to ensure all rates and agreements are appropriately administered in the procure-to-pay process, including SAP, Ariba, and Fieldglass
• Monitor spend against delegated authority under the Award of Business (AOB) to ensure compliance
• Report cost benefits against the function’s objectives Working Conditions The role has standard working conditions in an office environment with a regular workweek from Monday to Friday and is eligible to participate in CN’s hybrid work model. The role requires being available to respond to operational emergencies and may sometimes involve outdoor, industrial, and/or railroad operating conditions. The role requires minimal travel, up to 10%, within North America. Due to the nature of the role, the incumbent must be able to meet tight deadlines, handle pressure, and manage stress.

Requirements

Experience

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a similar role, preferably managing a broad portfolio of diverse products and services or working within facilities management
• Ability to read and understand basic contract documents Education/Certification/Designation
• University degree in Supply Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or any other related field Competencies
• Considers environmental impacts in every decision and action
• Demonstrates active listening
• Identifies needs and finds solutions to create value for all stakeholders
• Collaborates with others and shares information
• Seeks and values all perspectives
• Demonstrates agility and drives change
• Innovates
• Applies critical thinking
• Knows the business and stays current on industry needs Technical Skills/Knowledge
• Ability to conduct innovative analysis to understand market trends, cost drivers, suppliers, and best practices
• Strong technical skills related to data tools, data presentation, and strategic sourcing
• Knowledge of category management principles
• Knowledge of CN procurement policies and procedures
• Knowledge of contract structure, terms and conditions, and supplier performance
• Basic understanding of commercial aspects of product and service categories
• Understanding of the rail transportation or logistics industry is preferred
• Experience with SAP Ariba or similar procurement systems is preferred
• Strong Microsoft Office skills, including Excel and PowerPoint, and familiarity with Microsoft Access

About CN

CN is a premium railroad that sustainably generates value for our customers, shareholders, employees, and stakeholders with an unwavering commitment to safety and service. Essential to the economy, to the customers, and to the communities it serves, CN safely transports more than 300 million tons of natural resources, manufactured products, and finished goods throughout North America every year. CN's network connects Canada's Eastern and Western coasts with the U.S. South through a 20,000-mile rail network. CN and its affiliates have been contributing to community prosperity and sustainable trade since 1919. CN powers the North American economy and is committed to programs supporting social responsibility and environmental stewardship. At CN, we are dedicated to building North America's safest, most inclusive and sustainable railroad, which includes reflecting the communities in which we operate. Research shows that candidates often don't apply unless they feel they fit the job posting at 100%. To all potential applicants, even if you don't meet every job requirement listed in a posting, we still encourage you to apply. If you require an accommodation for the recruitment process (including alternate formats of materials, accessible meeting rooms or other accommodations), please get in touch with our team at cnrecruitment@cn.ca. As an equal opportunity employer, qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law. Please monitor your email on a regular basis as communication to applicants is done via email.