About the positionWe 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.Your responsibilities and tasksAs 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 IntelligenceDefine and continuously develop the global category strategy for Automation & Electrical ItemsAnalyze global market trends, supply base dynamics, pricing, volumes, and product developmentsProvide structured global market overviews and insights to internal stakeholdersSourcing & Supplier ManagementLead large and strategic RFQs and negotiate regional and global framework agreementsConduct negotiations on prices, terms, and conditions at global and regional levelConclude framework agreements in close cooperation with Legal and ComplianceManage and further develop strategic supplier relationships, focusing on cost, quality, availability, and innovationConsolidate and optimize the general/regional supplier baseCost & Value OptimizationAssess and manage Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) across the categoryIndependently identify cost‑saving opportunities, including price and technical comparisonsLead cross‑functional projects to realize sustainable savings and process improvementsTrack savings development across divisions and implement countermeasures in case of deviationsStakeholder & Project LeadershipAct as an interface between vendors, procurement,



and engineeringCoordinate closely with divisions, business units, and legal entities worldwideSupport local organizations in negotiations and implementation of savings initiativesPlan and facilitate workshops with suppliers and internal experts to unlock additional value and innovationMonitor and steer category spend toward preferred suppliersYour profile and qualificationsEducational BackgroundUniversity degree (Bachelor or higher) in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or similarProject Management qualification is a strong plusProfessional Knowledge & Experience5+ years of experience in procurement/category managementProven contract management experienceMust have strong technical and market knowledge of Automation and Electrical PanelsExperience working in global, matrix and centralized procurement organizationsSolid background in global negotiations and supplier managementStrong project management and change implementation skillsHigh cultural awareness and experience working internationallyOther Skills & CompetenciesFluent in English; German and/or Spanish are a plusAbility to lead and influence international and cross‑cultural teamsStrong stakeholder management and networking skillsStrategic mindset with excellent analytical and problem‑solving abilitiesComfortable working in complex matrix environmentsHigh level of ownership, accountability, and reliabilityClear, confident, and convincing communication styleWe offer:Attractive compensation package aligned with experience, responsibilities, and international exposurePrivate health insurance planEmployee Assistance ProgramFlexible working hours and a hybrid working model (up to two days per week remote)23 days of vacation per yearGreat work environment as part of a collaborative teamContinuous internal training and career development opportunities, both nationally and internationallyThe opportunity to join a company recognized as a Top Employer 2026About GEA

📌 Global Category Manager – Operations & Asset Lifecycle (Madrid)
🏢 Data4
📍 Madrid