Global Category Manager, Electronics (m/f/d)

A leading global electronics manufacturer is seeking an experienced Global Category Manager - Electronics to own and drive the global sourcing strategy for all electronic components and sub‑assemblies across its international operations. This individual will play a critical role in shaping the organisation's electronics supply base, delivering long-term value, and supporting its ambitious product innovation road map.

Working closely with engineering, R&D, supply chain, manufacturing, and senior leadership teams, the Global Category Manager will ensure category strategies support commercial growth, technology development, and supply continuity across multiple regions.

Key Responsibilities

Category Strategy Development

• Lead the global category strategy for electronic components such as semiconductors, PCBs, sensors, micro controllers, displays, connectors, power electronics, and embedded systems.
• Conduct global market intelligence, cost modelling, and risk assessments to inform strategic decisions.
• Align category strategies with product road maps, sustainability targets, and long‑term business objectives.
• Identify opportunities for innovation, value engineering, and supplier collaboration.

Supplier & Stakeholder Management

• Build and manage strategic relationships with key suppliers across Asia, Europe, and North America.
• Lead high‑value commercial negotiations, long‑term agreements, and global framework contracts.
• Drive supplier performance management, including KPIs for quality, delivery, cost, resilience, and innovation.
• Partner with engineering, operations, and quality teams to ensure optimal component selection and supplier capability.

Commercial & Operational Excellence

• Deliver global cost optimisation through strategic sourcing levers, competitive bidding, consolidation, and should‑cost modelling.
• Support New Product Introductions (NPIs) through early supplier involvement and alignment with R&D.
• Improve supply chain resilience through risk mitigation strategies such as dual sourcing, localisation, and technology roadmapping.
• Manage contract compliance, governance, and adherence to global procurement standards.

Key Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business, or related field.
• 5-7+ years' experience in procurement, category management, or strategic sourcing within electronics, high‑tech, automotive, or manufacturing industries.
• Strong understanding of electronic components, technology lifecycles, and global supply chain dynamics.
• Proven experience managing global suppliers and negotiating complex commercial agreements.
• Demonstrated ability to influence cross‑functional stakeholders and operate in a global, matrixed environment.