OverviewWe 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.ResponsibilitiesStrategy & 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 integral 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 global/regional supplier baseCost & Value OptimizationAssess and manage Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) across the categoryIdentify 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