Join the Southwest Airlines Team as a Technology Supply Chain Management Category Manager - Air Operations
Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for technology and supply chain management? Do you want to make a real impact in the airline industry? Southwest Airlines is seeking a talented Technology Supply Chain Management (SCM) Category Manager to join our team in Air Operations. As a trusted advisor, you will manage a portfolio of technology suppliers, drive strategic sourcing events, and mentor junior team members. If you're excited about the opportunity to pilot your career with heart and help drive the future of Southwest Airlines, we want to hear from you!
About Southwest Airlines
At Southwest Airlines, we're committed to connecting people to what's important in their lives through friendly, reliable, and low-cost air travel. Our people are our greatest asset, and we're dedicated to providing a stable work environment with equal opportunities for learning and personal growth. We encourage creativity and innovation, and our employees are empowered to make a difference. With a strong culture of respect, caring, and concern for our customers and employees, Southwest Airlines is an exciting place to work.
Job Summary
The Technology SCM Category Manager will play a critical role in managing a portfolio of technology suppliers for Air Operations, including Flight Operations, Network Operations Control, and Inflight Operations. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure suppliers meet business objectives, maximize supplier value, and mitigate risk. As a consultant in Air Operations technology spend and supplier-related issues, you will mentor junior team members and drive strategic sourcing events, negotiations, and contract drafting.
Key Responsibilities:
- Advise technology stakeholders on common risk elements of supplier agreements, programs, or projects
- Assist leaders with decision-making by encouraging competitive evaluation of new suppliers through the RFP process
- Create and implement negotiation strategies to achieve improved business outcomes
- Manage supplier communications and coordinate contract negotiation and strategic sourcing events
- Collaborate with internal customers to gain a solid understanding of business requirements
- Educate stakeholders and set expectations to achieve improved business outcomes and align around key positions on issues such as IP, data security, LOL, and SLA development
- Manage on-going demand planning with technology and/or business stakeholders for assigned agreements and renewals
- Support multiple technical categories across multiple programs and areas of the business
- Identify potential procurement opportunities through data analysis, category and industry knowledge, current and emerging business models, and discussions with stakeholders
- Communicate performance and concerns with suppliers that may result in redefining the relationship
- May perform other job duties as directed by employee's leaders
Requirements and Qualifications
Essential Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field
- 5+ years of experience in supply chain management, procurement, or a related field
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex data and negotiate contracts
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams
- Experience with strategic sourcing events, negotiations, and contract drafting
- Strong knowledge of supply chain management principles, practices, and technologies
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field
- 7+ years of experience in supply chain management, procurement, or a related field
- Experience in the airline or aviation industry
- Certifications in supply chain management, such as CSCP or CPIM
- Experience with category management and spend analysis
Skills and Competencies
To succeed in this role, you will need:
- Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment with multiple priorities
- Strong analytical and negotiation skills
- Ability to build and maintain relationships with stakeholders
- Strong knowledge of supply chain management principles, practices, and technologies
Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits
At Southwest Airlines, we're committed to providing opportunities for learning and personal growth. As a Technology SCM Category Manager, you'll have the opportunity to:
- Develop your skills and expertise in supply chain management and procurement
- Work with cross-functional teams to drive business outcomes
- Mentor junior team members and contribute to the development of future leaders
- Participate in training and development programs to enhance your skills and knowledge
- Take on new challenges and responsibilities as you grow in your role
Work Environment and Company Culture
At Southwest Airlines, we're proud of our company culture and work environment. As a remote employee, you'll have the flexibility to work from home or a remote office, with opportunities to work on-site as needed. Our culture is built on the following values:
- Respect: We treat each other with respect, dignity, and care
- Caring: We demonstrate genuine concern for our customers and employees
- Integrity: We act with integrity and honesty in all our interactions
- Fun: We have fun and enjoy coming to work!
Compensation, Perks, and Benefits
We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including:
- Competitive salary
- Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Retirement savings plan
- Paid time off and holidays
- Opportunities for professional development and growth
How to Apply
If you're excited about the opportunity to join our team as a Technology SCM Category Manager, please submit your application today. We welcome applicants with diverse thoughts, backgrounds, and experiences. Southwest Airlines is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Don't miss this opportunity to pilot your career with heart and help drive the future of Southwest Airlines. Apply now!
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