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.

Responsibilities / Tasks Key Responsibilities Include 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 integral 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

Independently 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

Your Profile / 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

We Offer

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 The opportunity to join a company recognized as a Top Employer 2026

📌 Global Category Manager- Automation & Electrical Items (f/m/d) (Madrid)
🏢 Gea Group
📍 Madrid