Lead Category Manager - Network Construction

Lumen is the trusted network for the AI‑powered world, connecting people, data, and applications through our expansive fiber network and connected ecosystem. We enable secure, high‑performance connectivity across cloud, edge, and AI workloads for enterprises, governments, and communities. At Lumen, you’ll work on infrastructure customers rely on today and build for what’s next, where performance, security, and resilience matter. This is a high accountability environment where bold ideas drive real innovation for our customers, partners, and industry. The work is challenging, expectations are clear, and trust is built into how we operate. If you’re ready to take ownership, deliver meaningful impact, and help shape the future of AI‑ready connectivity, join us today. **The Role** ------------ The Lead Category Manager oversees the strategy, sourcing, negotiation, and contracting of highly complex services and products associated with the engineering, construction, splicing, maintenance and repair of the Lumen fiber network. The Lead Category Manager is responsible for developing and implementing procurement strategies that align with the business objectives and optimize the value and performance of the suppliers. This position monitors market trends, analyzes spend data, defines category and negotiation strategies, identifies risks and opportunities, promotes diversity and sustainability, and manages critical supplier relationships and performance. As a Lead Category Manager, this position is expected to play a high\-level role in developing innovative strategies, ensuring execution of highly visible initiatives, and leading the organization’s most complex categories. **Work Location** ----------------- This is a work from home position within the U.S. **The Main Responsibilities** ----------------------------- Category analysis \& monitoring* Conduct internal \& external analysis of category (e.g., spend at sub\-category, supplier \& BU level; market conditions with supply/demand, should\-cost modeling) — coordinate with internal Reporting \& Analytics to leverage off\-the\-shelf analytics. * Track changes in supplier landscape, market dynamics, \& innovation opportunities within category. * Ensure category spend across all business segments is represented. * Prepare content for and lead strategy discussions at the VP level and above. Category strategy \& planning* Incorporate findings from analyses into annual category strategy plan, in addition to business unit goals \& budget targets. * Identify and pursue levers to drive savings via RFPs, negotiations, demand management, value engineering, etc. Contracting* Manage high\-complexity contracts and assist with "handing off" tactical contracts to Contracting Excellence team. * Utilize pre\-approved supplier contracts based on spend threshold / risk with standardized legal terms. RFX strategy \& planning* Develop RFX strategy within category to drive savings. * Manage high\-comp