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 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
- 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
- Versátil 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

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