Lead Category Manager - Finished Goods
About the job
- Strong listening, coaching, and influencing skills, including the ability to influence without direct authority.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively at all levels, particularly with management, along with executive presence and effective presentation skills.
- Excellent negotiation skills and knowledge of procurement and sourcing techniques, supplier integration, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Strong financial and analytical skills, with experience in strategic planning, budgeting, and financial reporting.
- Ability to conceive strategic program initiatives, plan, promote ideas, and execute them.
- Proven track record of developing and executing successful year-over-year productivity projects and complex sourcing/procurement strategies.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Power BI, and Smartsheet.
- Strong project and program management and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work in a matrixed environment while managing multiple and often conflicting priorities.
- Ability to drive change in a global organization with minimal supervision.
- Five or more years of experience in Global Procurement or Strategic Sourcing organizations, including supplier selection, supplier management, and contract negotiations.
- At least five years of category strategy or material field strategy experience.
- Experience balancing strategic and operational responsibilities, including regional sourcing, supplier management, and commodity risk management.
- Successful track record of designing and implementing complex sourcing and procurement strategies that achieved desired results within the category.
- Global mindset and experience working in an international, multicultural matrix environment.
- Bachelor's degree required.
- Establish, maintain, and develop relationships with key global suppliers to meet quality, cost, delivery, and productivity targets.
- Serve as an escalation point to resolve supplier performance issues.
- Establish regular communication cadence with strategic suppliers.
- Initiate and implement Supplier Days, including supplier workshops and Kaizen events.
- Support, organize, and participate in supplier conferences and summits.
- Implement strategic supplier management, supplier risk management, supplier diversity, and corporate social responsibility programs, leveraging Global Procurement's Center of Excellence.
- Develop and foster global supplier relationships that deliver cost reduction, supply assurance, quality improvement, and innovation.
- Define, lead, and monitor global supplier and category strategies, focusing on categories within Consumer Fastening and Layout.
- Develop future-oriented strategies and purchasing concepts aligned with the company's global orientation, with the aim of cross-plant application.
- Consider specific Strategic Business Unit needs during category strategy implementation and provide expertise to category and regional leadership.
- Link category and sourcing strategy with Global Procurement priorities and Strategic Business Unit goals.
- Implement category strategies to support the business vision and margin resiliency initiatives.
- Maintain and control correct supplier classification in product groups and subgroups using SIEVO.
- Reduce the number of suppliers and bundle purchasing volumes.
- Institutionalize best-practice processes, policies, and knowledge sharing between Global Procurement and Strategic Business Units to ensure continuous improvement.
- Negotiate, implement, and manage supplier contracts and service level agreements.
- Ensure contract compliance with internal approval processes and signature regulations, and register contracts in the group-wide database.
- Monitor markets and trends to proactively renegotiate supplier prices.
- Analyze and negotiate supplier price adjustments.
- Lead supplier selection through management of formal request for proposal, request for quotation, and request for information processes.
- Carry out price comparisons to optimize procurement; initiate price and value analyses and substitute parts or materials as needed.
- Accompany new-part projects in cooperation with development from the product development phase to achieve cost reductions.
- Use modern purchasing tools, including electronic requests for quotation, electronic auctions, and should-costing.
- Create total-cost-of-ownership value through productivity, working capital, synergies, reduced risk, and improved supplier lead times.
- Lead and drive program management for core productivity, working capital, and supplier performance initiatives.
- Plan and implement programs and projects, including complex large-scale initiatives, and define their content, goals, and milestones.
- Coordinate and monitor milestones, interfaces, dates, and services, internally and externally, and initiate corrective measures as needed.
- Ensure New Ways of Sourcing are used and state-of-the-art reports are developed and implemented, including reports using Power BI and Smartsheet.
- Lead individuals and teams to deliver results through solid, dotted-line, or team-based reporting relationships.
- Ensure a high degree of service delivery and Strategic Business Unit satisfaction, partnering with Strategic Business Units to ensure they recognize the business value of Global Procurement.
- Ensure suitable control measures and key performance indicators are in place to measure progress and derive corrective action plans.
- Support operations, including planning and tactical purchasing, during supplier escalations such as delivery bottlenecks and quality problems.
- Conduct make-versus-buy evaluations of key product lines in support of business strategies.
- Assist in identifying and executing negotiated inventory programs.
- Support acquisition integration projects, including due diligence, opportunity assessments, sub-team participation, delivery of synergy targets, and overall sourcing-initiative project management.
- Ensure compliance with Global Procurement and Global Supply Services policies, procedures, and Delegation of Authority requirements.
- Multi-lingual capability.
- Certified in Production and Inventory Management or Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals certification.
- Project Management Professional certification.
- Six Sigma or Lean/Kaizen certification.
- MBA or master's degree in Supply Chain.
About the company
Stanley Black & Decker designs, manufactures, and sells a wide range of tools and outdoor equipment for professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Its products include power tools, hand tools, storage systems, and security devices, marketed under brands like DeWalt, Black+Decker, Stanley, and Craftsman through retailers worldwide. The company uses a global manufacturing footprint in the Americas, Europe, and Asia to produce and distribute products efficiently. Its goal is to be a trusted, broad-based supplier of tools and related solutions with extensive brand reach and global availability.
Company Size
10,001+
Company Stage
IPO
Headquarters
New Britain, Connecticut
Founded
1843
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- September 4, 2026 Excel sale frees capital for higher-growth electric outdoor products.
- DEWALT's September 2026 WorldSkills survey spotlights rising demand for hands-on and digital training.
- Stanley-branded flooring launched in EMEA on September 2, 2026 broadens licensing revenue.
What critics are saying
- DOJ sued Stanley Black & Decker on December 22, 2025 over delayed CPSC reporting.
- Hampstead, Maryland closes by March 26, 2027, signaling continuing manufacturing shrinkage.
- Tariff pricing class actions threaten refunds, penalties, and brand damage across DEWALT products.
What makes Stanley Black & Decker unique
- DEWALT and Stanley brands command contractor trust across global jobsites in 2026.
- WorldSkills partnership keeps DEWALT embedded with future tradespeople and vocational schools.
- Portfolio pruning around Excel sharpens focus on premium tools, storage, and outdoor brands.
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Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life Insurance
Disability Insurance
401(k) Company Match
401(k) Retirement Plan
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Paid Vacation
Paid Sick Leave
Paid Holidays
Unlimited Paid Time Off
Wellness Program
Phone/Internet Stipend
Company News
Dewalt Cordless Drill deals persist beyond Prime Day. Key takeaways. * The **DeWalt** 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver set remains discounted at $138.99, retaining a 38% price reduction from its standard $239.00 list price following October Prime Day. * This hardware kit features compact lithium-ion batteries weighing approximately 12 ounces, significantly reducing user fatigue compared to legacy corded power tools. * Modern ergonomic improvements include integrated LED worklights and one-handed bit tip loading mechanisms designed for efficiency in residential and light commercial projects. TrendPulse analysis. Industry context. The enduring discount on the DeWalt power tool bundle highlights a broader shift in the retail and lifestyle sectors toward prolonged promotional lifecycles. Major manufacturers like **Stanley Black & Decker**, the parent company of DeWalt, increasingly rely on extended promotional pricing windows to capture market share from competitors such as **Milwaukee Tool** and **Makita**. As consumer spending faces inflationary pressures, tool brands are utilizing aggressive discounting strategies well past official shopping holidays to maintain high inventory turnover. Furthermore, the rapid evolution of battery technology has commoditized baseline performance, forcing legacy brands to compete fiercely on price-to-value ratios rather than technological exclusivity alone. For industry observers and real estate professionals, the widespread adoption of standardized cordless platforms indicates a permanent migration away from corded alternatives in both consumer and light professional markets. Home improvement retailers like **The Home Depot** and **Lowe's** now structure their promotional calendars around continuous ecosystem adoption rather than isolated transaction spikes. By lowering the barrier to entry for multi-tool lithium-ion kits, manufacturers successfully lock consumers into proprietary battery platforms, driving long-term ecosystem loyalty and accessory purchases. This ecosystem-driven retail model mirrors software-as-a-service strategies translated into physical hardware. Why this matters. For industry investors and retail analysts, post-Prime Day pricing persistence signals shifting inventory management dynamics. Brands are aggressively clearing warehouse space ahead of the critical year-end holiday shopping surge, creating unique value opportunities for value-conscious consumers and independent contractors. Understanding these promotional cycles allows procurement managers and DIY enthusiasts to time capital expenditures effectively. Moreover, the convergence of high performance and lightweight ergonomics in consumer-grade tools blurs the traditional line between professional and residential hardware categories, expanding the total addressable market for tier-one tool manufacturers. Stakeholders monitoring the home improvement sector should anticipate heightened promotional frequency across all major e-commerce channels. As digital-first retail continues to dictate consumer price expectations, manufacturers must balance margin protection with volume-driven sales models. Consumers and small business operators benefit directly from this competitive pressure, gaining access to commercial-grade engineering at accessible price points. Ultimately, strategic purchasing decisions during these extended discount windows maximize return on investment for tooling fleets, whether for residential maintenance or light commercial contracting. The bottom line. Lingering post-Prime Day discounts on essential power tool kits demonstrate that aggressive hardware promotions are expanding beyond traditional holiday windows to capture value-driven consumers. Decision-makers should leverage these extended pricing opportunities to modernize equipment fleets without paying premium list prices. Read the full article. This analysis is based on reporting from Lifehacker AI-powered news analysis · October 9, 2026 Editorially Reviewed
DEWALT(R) releases survey about how next generation of workers perceive skilled careers. Sep 22, 2026, 18:01 ET * DEWALT(R) surveys 500 WorldSkills competitors across 60+ countries and regions on the future of skilled careers, workforce readiness and training * Survey identified gap between improving perception of skilled trades and their contribution to the economy and encouragement to enter vocational careers * President and CEO of Stanley Black & Decker, Chris Nelson, to discuss the essential role skilled tradespeople play in today's economy and how to support next generation of skilled trades at WorldSkills Shanghai Competition 2026 TOWSON, Md., Sept. 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ - Ahead of WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, the world's premier skilled trades competition, DEWALT(R), a Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) brand, surveyed over 500 WorldSkills competitors representing more than 60 countries and regions about the future of skilled careers, workforce readiness and training. The survey revealed that the next generation of trades professionals recognize their importance and contributions to the global economy, but simultaneously also perceive a disconnect between the importance of their work and the pathways available to enter the field. According to the survey results, 76% of respondents say technical and vocational skills are increasingly important to the global economy, yet 51% believe too few young people are entering the trades. 71% of respondents also noted that while the public image of technical and vocational careers has improved, 52% were still encouraged toward more traditional academic paths, compared to just 14% who were encouraged toward technical and vocational careers. "The real economy runs on skilled labor - across housing, transportation, manufacturing, energy, and digital infrastructure - and global demand for these professionals continues to rise. As an industry, we have a responsibility not only to celebrate the people who power these essential sectors, but also to invest in creating pathways into the skilled trades," said Chris Nelson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Stanley Black & Decker. "Through DEWALT's Grow the Trades program and partnerships with organizations like WorldSkills, we are working to raise awareness of these rewarding careers and expand access for the next generation of skilled tradespeople." Key Survey Takeaways * The future is being built by skilled workers. Three-quarters (76%) of respondents say technical and vocational skills are increasingly important to the global economy, yet 51% believe too few young people are entering the trades. Respondents point to barriers that begin early: 45% say young people are not exposed to skilled career opportunities soon enough, while 53% say they felt pressure to pursue a university or traditional academic career. * The perception of skilled careers is improving, but the pathways into the trades have not caught up. While 71% said the public image of technical and vocational careers has improved, 52% were still encouraged toward more traditional academic paths, compared to just 14% who were encouraged toward technical and vocational careers. * Growing the pipeline starts with earlier exposure and more accessible routes in. When asked how to encourage more young people to pursue skilled careers, 45% selected more opportunities to try skilled work firsthand and 38% selected more paid apprenticeships or earn-while-you-learn pathways. Additionally, 88% of respondents said financial assistance is important to making technical or vocational education more attainable. "Skilled careers are the engine of economies everywhere, and this generation of competitors understands that. They are not waiting to be told trades matter - they are proving it, with new technology as one more set of tools in their hands," said David Hoey, CEO of WorldSkills International. Supporting American Skilled Trades at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 As a premium partner and tools sponsor for WorldSkills International, and platinum sponsor of WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, DEWALT is proud to support its mission to equip the next generation of skilled professionals with the training, experience and opportunities needed to succeed. DEWALT is sponsoring two Team USA competitors at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, Charles "Charlie" Goede, a 19-year-old plumbing apprentice from Connecticut, and Tristan Coates, a 22-year-old business owner and residential builder from Florida. DEWALT has provided both young professionals with tools and resources throughout their training as they prepare to compete on the global stage. This sponsorship complements DEWALT's Grow the Trades program which is focused on recruiting more people into the trades and by increasing awareness and pathways into the skilled trades, and making vocations careers more accessible. Chris Nelson, President and CEO of Stanley Black & Decker, will also participate in a fireside chat at the event, where he will discuss the critical role skilled trade workers play in driving innovation, growth and progress around the world. Follow DEWALT on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for updates on WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 taking place between September 22 - 27, 2026. About DEWALT DEWALT, a Stanley Black & Decker brand, is a leader in total jobsite solutions. For more than 100 years, DEWALT has been powering the future of construction with tools and technologies that have been designed, built and tested to help deliver safety and productivity on every jobsite. For more information, visit www.dewalt.com or follow DEWALT on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. About Stanley Black & Decker Founded in 1843 and headquartered in the USA, Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) is a worldwide leader in Tools and Outdoor, operating manufacturing facilities globally. The Company's approximately 43,500 employees produce innovative end-user inspired power tools, hand tools, storage, digital jobsite solutions, outdoor and lifestyle products, and engineered fasteners to support the world's builders, tradespeople and DIYers. The Company's world class portfolio of trusted brands includes DEWALT(R), CRAFTSMAN(R), STANLEY(R), BLACK+DECKER(R), and Cub Cadet(R). To learn more, visit www.stanleyblackanddecker.com or follow Stanley Black & Decker on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X. About WorldSkills Since 1950, WorldSkills has come to symbolize the pinnacle of excellence in vocational training. It provides a unique means of exchange and comparison of world-class competency standards in the industrial trades and service sectors of the global economy. The continued growth of WorldSkills attests to the fact that traditional trade and craft skills, along with newer technology's multi-skilled occupations, make an essential contribution to the economic and social well-being of people everywhere. For more information, go to: www.worldskills.org. Methodology DEWALT conducted an online survey of WorldSkills competitors from August 18-28, 2026. The survey was distributed to more than 1,000 competitors, with n=534 respondents participating across 60+ countries and regions. Base sizes vary by question, as not all respondents answered every question. SOURCE DEWALT
Selvi Supuriamaniam's role expanded to HR director-India, Stanley Black & Decker. Since 2024, Supuriamaniam has been serving as HR director-Middle East & East West Africa By HRK News Bureau September 21, 2026 2 Mins Read 687 Views Selvi Supuriamaniam, who is the HR director, Middle East & East-West Africa, Stanley Black & Decker, has now taken on the additional role of HR director for India. She has been with the British tools and innovative solutions company since 2024. Supuriamaniam began as a humble HR executive in August of 2007, with Kao Penang Group of Malaysia. Less than five years later, she moved to Coca-Cola Bottlers (Malaysia) as human resource business partner, in May of 2012. Just over a year later, she was elevated to head-organisational development and learning, in September of 2013. Nine months into this role, she was promoted to talent acquisition manager-Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei. After five successful years with Coca-Cola, Selvi Supuriamaniam moved to Baxter International as human resource manager. General Mills roped her in to play senior HR manager (South East Asia) in July of 2018. Over a year into this role, she was promoted to head HR (Middle East and Africa). Over two years later she was elevated once again to lead-Asia Women Leadership Network. This role required her to relocate to Dubai, United Arab Emirates. October of 2021 saw her elevated to head-talent and organisational effectiveness, global emerging markets (GEMS). Among other responsibilities, she designed, developed, and implemented global innovative talent-management programmes and processes to improve depth, quality and engagement of talent across the organisation. After a year's career break, Supuriamaniam took up the role of HR director Middle East and East West Africa in July of 2024. With her responsibilities expanded now, she will handle India as part of the multiple markets she is responsible for. HRKatha wishes Selvi Supuriamaniam all the best!
Craftsman mystery has been solved. If you buy something through its links, ToolGuyd might earn an affiliate commission. Discover more Cordless Power Tools Yesterday I posted about a new Craftsman teaser announcement, where the Stanley Black & Decker tool brand was alluding to a new partnership with Crocs. So what's this Craftsman and Cros partnership about? The Craftsman giveaway requires following both brands on Instagram, "liking" their post, and tagging friends so they could do the same. You can already buy red crocs and tool-themed charms. But with this special partnership between the two brands, you can rope in your friends for a chance to win a set for free.
Stanley Black & Decker to sell $300M mower business. September 8, 2026 Stanley Black & Decker says it will sell its Excel Industries lawn equipment business to Arkansas-based Bad Boy Mowers. The New Britain toolmaker acquired Kansas-based Excel in 2021. It makes gas-powered, ride-on and zero-turn mowers under the Hustler brand. The company says it's expected to generate revenue of approximately $300 million this fiscal year. Stanley says the sale is an effort to "refine" its portfolio and focus on growing its biggest brands, and it will continue to make and market lawn-mowing equipment. "We are excited about the high-growth opportunities presented in electric outdoor products, and we will continue to thoughtfully invest in high-performance, residential ride-on and zero-turn mowers," CEO Chris Nelson said. "We are confident in our plans to drive organic growth and margin expansion across this portion of our business." Excel launched the first hydrostatic, zero-turn mower in 1964 and sells through independent dealers across the U.S. and Canada. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.