Category Manager

About the Position

We are seeking a Category Manager to manage supplier relationships, develop sub-category strategies, and ensure supply assurance for Harman International.

Responsibilities

• Supplier Relationship Management: Manage and make critical decisions on all aspects of supplier relationships, including contracts, commercial/pricing, supply assurance, and conflict resolution.
• Sub-category Strategy Development: Develop and execute sub-category strategies through alignment with Harman International global category lead, Business Units, engineering, quality, and manufacturing activities.
• Coordination: Coordinate engagement between procurement, supply chain functions, and senior stakeholders.
• Escalation Point: Serve as an escalation/communication point for Harman International and the supply partner.
• Supplier Development: Develop supplier selection in support of winning new business, drive make vs. buy processes, and manage supplier portfolio.
• Negotiation and Cost Reduction: Plan, coordinate, execute, and document negotiations and annual global price negotiations. Identify and implement cost reduction potential.
• Performance Management: Establish goals, improvement plans, business reviews, and monthly reporting related to areas of responsibility.
• Procurement Coordination: Ensure timely coordination of procurement processes to guarantee supply, cost, and quality.
• Change Management and Data Maintenance: Manage change-management and SAP master data maintenance. Observe global procurement markets.

Requirements

• Education: University degree in Engineering or Business Administration.
• Experience: Minimum 2-3 years of relevant working experience, preferably in procurement, program sourcing, engineering, quality, or product development.
• Skills:
  • Procurement of electronic components is a great benefit.
  • High level of commitment, strong self-motivation, and goal orientation.
  • Negotiation and relationship-building skills.
  • In-depth product knowledge in electronics and semiconductors is desired.
  • Strong communication and presentation skills.
  • Experience in an international working environment with multicultural teams.
  • Fluent English skills.
  • Strong data statistical analysis skills using Excel or other tools.

Nice to Have

• Languages: German or Chinese skills highly preferred.
• Background: Semiconductors or electronics product sourcing background.
• Mindset: Global mindset.

We Offer

• Team: Be part of an international team working with the world's largest automotive manufacturers.
• Compensation: Attractive salary package.
• Benefits:
  • Employer contribution to company pension plan.
  • Extensive technical trainings.
  • Career development opportunities.
  • A great package of additional benefits.

About the Company

Ever since the 1920s, we’ve been amplifying the sense of sound. Today, that legacy endures, with integrated technology platforms that make the world smarter, safer, and more connected. Across automotive, lifestyle, and digital transformation solutions, we create innovative technologies that turn ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences. Our renowned automotive and lifestyle solutions can be found everywhere, from the music we play in our cars and homes to venues that feature today’s most sought-after performers, while our digital transformation solutions serve humanity by addressing the world’s ever-evolving needs and demands. Marketing our award-winning portfolio under 16 iconic brands, such as JBL, Mark Levinson, and Revel, we set ourselves apart by exceeding the highest engineering and design standards for our customers, our partners, and each other.

If you’re ready to innovate and do work that makes a lasting impact, join our talent community today!

Important Notice: Recruitment Scams

Please be aware that HARMAN recruiters will always communicate with you from an '@harman.com', ‘@careers.harman.com’ or ‘@harmanglobal.avature.net’ email address. We will never ask for payments, banking, credit card, personal financial information, or access to your LinkedIn/email account during the screening, interview, or recruitment process. If you are asked for such information or receive communication from an email address not ending in one of the above email domains about a job with HARMAN, please cease communication immediately and report the incident to us through: [email protected].

You Belong Here

HARMAN is committed to making every employee feel welcomed, valued, and empowered. No matter what role you play, we encourage you to share your ideas, voice your distinct perspective, and bring your whole self with you – all within a support-minded culture that celebrates what makes each of us unique. We also recognize that learning is a lifelong pursuit and want you to flourish. We proudly offer added opportunities for training, development, and continuing education, further empowering you to live the career you want.

HARMAN is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. HARMAN strives to hire the best qualified candidates and is committed to building a workforce representative of the diverse marketplaces and communities of our global colleagues and customers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. HARMAN attracts, hires, and develops employees based on merit, qualifications, and job-related performance.

HARMAN is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process, please contact us at [email protected]. Requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis in accordance with applicable law.