Category Manager - Automotive

Overview

Located in Munich, Germany with a hybrid work model requiring three days onsite, this position is embedded within a rapidly growing automotive innovation company. The role will contribute to fortifying the global procurement team by leading sourcing strategies within a critical direct material category focusing on electronics.

Role Summary

You will be responsible for owning the category strategy globally for key electronic commodities. Managing supplier relationships valued in the hundreds of millions of euros, the position involves close collaboration with Engineering, Product Management, Manufacturing, and Executive Leadership teams. Key objectives include developing sustainable sourcing strategies, negotiating multi-national commercial contracts, monitoring supplier performance, and ensuring uninterrupted supply chains across a multifaceted international manufacturing footprint. This role offers great exposure and influence over commercial outcomes and technological development roadmaps.

Key Responsibilities

• Formulate and implement global sourcing plans for assigned commodities and categories.
• Establish and nurture strategic partnerships with top-tier worldwide suppliers.
• Lead intricate commercial negotiations concerning pricing, contractual agreements, capacity distribution, and long-term partnerships.
• Identify and pursue cost-saving opportunities while safeguarding quality standards and ensuring supply reliability.
• Work alongside Engineering and R&D during new product development phases and supplier evaluation.
• Stay informed on industry market trends, technological advancements, and supply chain risks to adapt sourcing methods proactively.
• Conduct supplier business reviews and drive ongoing supplier performance enhancements.
• Assist executive leadership with procurement strategies, market insights, and risk evaluations.
• Coordinate with regional procurement groups in Europe, North America, and Asia to secure global sourcing alignment.
• Manage vendor escalations, capacity challenges, and formulate business continuity plans.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Several years of experience in automotive procurement, category management, or strategic sourcing.
• Hands-on expertise handling global direct material categories within automotive manufacturing.
• Proven skills in commercial negotiations with international suppliers.
• Proficient in formulating long-term category sourcing strategies, beyond operational procurement.
• Capability to influence senior leaders across engineering, operations, and executive teams.
• Strong analytical abilities combined with a commercial focus.
• Experience working within complex international matrix organizations.
• Fluency in English is required; knowledge of German is advantageous but not mandatory.