The Category Manager is responsible for managing internal commercial category management activities (customer relationship development, contracting, pricing, market information, data process inputs) on an assigned book of business in addition to direct customer development and management. The individual will work cross-functionally with outside sales partners, other key internal departments and provide support to the customer base. Ability to perform in a fast-paced, transaction-rich environment while delivering exceptional customer service is critical. This position includes direct and co-assigned managed accounts, some travel to these accounts, shows and visits to plants will be required.  This role may also be combined with other responsibilities as directed by the Business Director. The Category Manager will:Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesPromote enhancement of customer relationships and instill service culture. Book of Business responsibilities will include management of some of the business unit’s strategic direct and co-assigned accounts.  Develop and maintain customer development plans.Provide transactional and consultative support to established Book of Business via daily quote, forward contracting, pricing, market management, RFP/RFP responses and customer/category project needs. Manage bookings and timely applications.Actively pursue new business opportunities to drive additional volume and gross profit.Perform regular pricing structure analysis in response to RFP requests, competitive opportunities & threats, changing cost metrics, and margin reviews to achieve goals and results.   Follow management guidelines and provide input to pricing strategies.  Provide some guidance to other colleagues in the department in similar activities.Conduct trend analysis by category to support growth.Possess good understanding of relevant markets and provide advice on assessment of position and recommend purchasing tactics to customers.Function as conduit for Outside Sales and Customer feedback to the rest of the organization. Support Outside Sales activities as defined by direct manager. Own significant customer and category demand inputs (volume and GP) for short- and long-term business planning through established processes in the organization. Own and provide forecast input and inventory follow up for the assigned category.Responsible for up to approx. $100-400 MM Sales/Year or corresponding Gross Profit.Occasionally coach and mentor other team members.Regularly work on special projects/other departmental responsibilities as assigned.