About Symetra Financial

Symetra Financial is a leading national financial services company dedicated to helping individuals and businesses achieve financial security and confidence in their future. Specializing in life insurance, retirement solutions, and employee benefits, Symetra operates with core principles of value, transparency, and sustainability. The company designs products and services that stand the test of time, providing competitive pricing and clear communication to ensure customers understand exactly what they are purchasing. Symetra is committed to its communities, employees, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, fostering an environment where innovation thrives and every voice is heard.

Headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, Symetra has built a reputation for reliability in the insurance and financial sectors. From group life insurance to retirement plans and medical stop-loss coverage, Symetra's offerings empower more people to access financial freedom. As a remote-first organization, Symetra prioritizes employee well-being with flexible work arrangements and robust support systems.

Role Overview

The Category Manager position at Symetra Financial is a pivotal remote role within the procurement and sourcing team. This position focuses on managing key spend categories such as technology, travel, merchandise, and professional services. As a Category Manager, you will drive strategic sourcing initiatives, negotiate high-impact contracts, and cultivate strong supplier relationships to align with Symetra's business objectives. This role offers the chance to influence cost savings, risk mitigation, and operational efficiency in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Reporting to procurement leadership, the Category Manager collaborates cross-functionally with legal, business units, and vendors to deliver value-driven outcomes. With a salary range starting at $87,900 and reaching up to $146,500 plus annual bonuses, this position attracts top talent in procurement seeking impactful remote opportunities in the insurance and finance industry.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you will take ownership of the end-to-end sourcing process, ensuring Symetra secures optimal terms and partnerships.

• Negotiate, draft, and review complex contracts, amendments, statements of work (SOWs), and other sourcing documents while interpreting terms and advising on risks in partnership with Legal.
• Lead request for proposals (RFPs), competitive bids, pricing reviews, and comprehensive market analysis to identify best-in-class suppliers.
• Develop and execute sourcing strategies, conduct supplier evaluations, and manage the full sourcing lifecycle.
• Partner with internal stakeholders to standardize vendor management practices and monitor performance metrics for service quality, pricing, and delivery.
• Handle contract renewals, negotiations, term notifications, purchase orders, and contribute to process improvements and broader sourcing strategies.

Qualifications & Requirements

Symetra seeks strategic thinkers with proven procurement expertise. Key qualifications include:

• High school diploma required; bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain, or related field preferred.
• At least 5 years of experience in sourcing, procurement, or vendor management, ideally in insurance, finance, or professional services.
• Relevant certifications such as Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM), Certified Sourcing Manager (CSMP), Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), PMP, or Six Sigma are highly preferred.
• Exceptional negotiation, analytical, communication, and project management skills.
• Ability to thrive in fast-paced, complex environments, build cross-functional relationships, and influence without authority.

Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship. Review Symetra's Remote Network Minimum Requirements for technical setup details.

Benefits & Perks

Symetra stands out with employee-centric benefits designed for work-life harmony:

• Flexible full-time or hybrid telecommuting options in a remote-first culture.
• 401(k) retirement plan with immediate vesting and company matching up to 6%.
• Generous paid time away, including vacation, sick time, flex days, and 10 paid holidays.
• Double-impact community giving through company matching programs.
• Comprehensive health, wellness, and financial perks tailored to individual needs—explore the full Symetra Benefits Overview for details.

Career Growth

At Symetra, career advancement is a priority. Employees like Cindy J. G., Sr. Product Owner, praise the company's innovation, empowerment, and growth opportunities. Stephanie F., VP Customer Service & Operations, highlights Symetra's scale—big enough for national impact, small enough for personal recognition. As a Category Manager, you'll gain exposure to enterprise-level procurement, leadership development, and cross-functional projects, positioning you for senior roles in supply chain management within insurance and finance.

Symetra invests in professional development through certifications, training, and mentorship, ensuring your skills evolve with industry trends like sustainable sourcing and digital procurement tools.

Why Join Symetra

Joining Symetra means contributing to a mission-driven company that prioritizes inclusion and employee success. Symetra aspires to be the most inclusive insurance firm, celebrating diverse perspectives to fuel innovation. In life insurance, retirement planning, and employee benefits, Symetra helps secure futures while offering you stability, flexibility, and a supportive culture. Work remotely with a team that values transparency, sustainability, and your unique contributions.

Role FAQs

Is this role fully remote?

Yes, this is a remote position within Symetra's Remote Network, subject to minimum requirements for home office setup.

What is the salary range?

Base salary ranges from $87,900 to $146,500, plus eligibility for an annual bonus program.

Does Symetra offer visa sponsorship?

No, applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

What categories will I manage?

Key spend areas may include technology, travel, merchandise, and professional services.

How does Symetra support DEI?

Symetra builds an inclusive environment by recognizing assumptions, embracing multiple perspectives, and removing barriers for all employees.