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 integral 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

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