Responsibilities / Tasks
As Global Category Manager, you will own the global strategy for Automation & Electrical Items and translate market intelligence into tangible value for the organization.
Key responsibilities include:
Strategy & Market Intelligence
1. Define and continuously develop the global category strategy for Automation & Electrical Items
2. Analyze global market trends, supply base dynamics, pricing, volumes, and product developments
3. Provide structured global market overviews and insights to internal stakeholders
Sourcing & Supplier Management
4. Lead large and strategic RFQs and negotiate regional and global framework agreements
5. Conduct negotiations on prices, terms, and conditions at global and regional level
6. Conclude framework agreements in close cooperation with Legal and Compliance
7. Manage and further develop strategic supplier relationships, focusing on cost, quality, availability, and innovation
8. Consolidate and optimize the global/regional supplier base
Cost & Value Optimization
9. Assess and manage Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) across the category
10. Independently identify cost‑saving opportunities, including price and technical comparisons
11. Lead cross‑functional projects to realize sustainable savings and process improvements
12. Track savings development across divisions and implement countermeasures in case of deviations
Stakeholder & Project Leadership
13. Act as an interface between vendors, procurement, and engineering
14. Coordinate closely with divisions, business units, and legal entities worldwide
15. Support local organizations in negotiations and implementation of savings initiatives
16. Plan and facilitate workshops with suppliers and internal experts to unlock additional value and innovation
17. Monitor and steer category spend toward preferred suppliers
Your Profile / Qualifications
Educational Background
18. University degree (Bachelor or higher) in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or similar
19. Project Management qualification is a strong plus
Professional Knowledge & Experience
20. 5+ years of experience in procurement/category management
21. Proven contract management experience
22. Strong technical and market knowledge of Automation and Electrical Panels
23. Experience working in global, matrix and centralized procurement organizations
24. Solid background in global negotiations and supplier management
25. Strong project management and change implementation skills
26. High cultural awareness and experience working internationally
Other Skills & Competencies
27. Fluent in English; German and/or Spanish are a plus
28. Ability to lead and influence international and cross‑cultural teams
29. Strong stakeholder management and networking skills
30. Strategic mindset with excellent analytical and problem‑solving abilities
31. Comfortable working in complex matrix environments
32. High level of ownership, accountability, and reliability
33. Clear, confident, and convincing communication style
We offer:
34. Attractive compensation package aligned with experience, responsibilities, and international exposure
35. Private health insurance plan
36. Employee Assistance Program
37. Flexible working hours and a hybrid working model (up to two days per week remote)
38. 23 days of vacation per year
39. Great work environment as part of a collaborative team
40. Continuous internal training and career development opportunities, both nationally and internationally
41. The opportunity to join a company recognized as a Top Employer 2026