Global Category Manager- Automation & Electrical Items (f/m/d)

Overview

We are looking for a Global Category Manager – Automation & Electrical Items to drive a forward‑looking category strategy on a global scale. In this role, you will lead high‑impact sourcing initiatives, manage strategic supplier relationships, and deliver sustainable cost and value optimization across regions and businesses. You will operate at the intersection of procurement, engineering, and suppliers, acting as a trusted partner for our divisions and business units worldwide.

Responsibilities

• Strategy & Market Intelligence
  • Define and continuously develop the global category strategy for Automation & Electrical Items
  • Analyze global market trends, supply base dynamics, pricing, volumes, and product developments
  • Provide structured global market overviews and insights to internal stakeholders
• Sourcing & Supplier Management
  • Lead large and strategic RFQs and negotiate regional and global framework agreements
  • Conduct negotiations on prices, terms, and conditions at global and regional level
  • Conclude framework agreements in close cooperation with Legal and Compliance
  • Manage and further develop strategic supplier relationships, focusing on cost, quality, availability, and innovation
  • Consolidate and optimize the global/regional supplier base
• Cost & Value Optimization
  • Assess and manage Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) across the category
  • Identify cost‑saving opportunities, including price and technical comparisons
  • Lead cross‑functional projects to realize sustainable savings and process improvements
  • Track savings development across divisions and implement countermeasures in case of deviations
• Stakeholder & Project Leadership
  • Act as an interface between vendors, procurement, and engineering
  • Coordinate closely with divisions, business units, and legal entities worldwide
  • Support local organizations in negotiations and implementation of savings initiatives
  • Plan and facilitate workshops with suppliers and internal experts to unlock additional value and innovation
  • Monitor and steer category spend toward preferred suppliers

Qualifications

• Educational Background
  • University degree (Bachelor or higher) in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or similar
  • Project Management qualification is a strong plus
• Professional Knowledge & Experience
  • 5+ years of experience in procurement/category management
  • Proven contract management experience
  • Must have strong technical and market knowledge of Automation and Electrical Panels
  • Experience working in global, matrix and centralized procurement organizations
  • Solid background in global negotiations and supplier management
  • Strong project management and change implementation skills
  • High cultural awareness and experience working internationally
• Other Skills & Competencies
  • Fluent in English; German and/or Spanish are a plus
  • Ability to lead and influence international and cross‑cultural teams
  • Strong stakeholder management and networking skills
  • Strategic mindset with excellent analytical and problem‑solving abilities
  • Comfortable working in complex matrix environments
  • High level of ownership, accountability, and reliability
  • Clear, confident, and convincing communication style

Benefits

• Attractive compensation package aligned with experience, responsibilities, and international exposure
• Private health insurance plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible working hours and a hybrid working model (up to two days per week remote)
• 23 days of vacation per year
• Great work environment as part of a collaborative team
• Continuous internal training and career development opportunities, both nationally and internationally
• Opportunity to join a company recognized as a Top Employer 2026