Category Manager

About the Position

We are seeking a Category Manager to join our Supply Chain team in Garching, Bavaria, Germany. This role involves managing supplier relationships, developing sub-category strategies, and ensuring supply assurance.

Responsibilities

• Manage and make critical decisions on all aspects of supplier relationships, including contracts, commercial/pricing, supply assurance, and conflict resolution.
• Develop and execute sub-category strategies in alignment with Harman International's global category lead, Business Units, engineering, quality, and manufacturing activities.
• Coordinate engagement between procurement, supply chain functions, and senior stakeholders.
• Serve as an escalation/communication point for Harman International and the supply partner.
• Develop supplier selection strategies to support winning new business.
• Drive the make vs. buy process.
• Identify, establish, and develop new suppliers, manage supplier relationships, and evaluate supplier performance.
• Plan, coordinate, execute, and document negotiations and annual global price negotiations.
• Identify, implement, and document cost reduction potential.
• Establish goals, improvement plans, business reviews, and monthly reporting related to areas of responsibility.
• Ensure timely coordination of procurement processes to guarantee supply, cost, and quality.
• Manage change and maintain SAP master data.
• Observe global procurement markets.

Requirements

• University degree in Engineering or Business Administration.
• Minimum 2-3 years of relevant working experience, preferably in procurement, program sourcing, engineering, quality, or product development.
• Experience in 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

• Chinese skills highly preferred.
• Semiconductors or Electronics product sourcing background.
• Global mindset.

We Offer

• Be part of an international team working with the world's largest automotive manufacturers.
• Attractive salary package: € 103,875 - € 152,350 annually.
• Employer contribution to company pension plan.
• Extensive technical trainings.
• Career development opportunities.
• A great package of additional benefits.

About the Company

HARMAN has been amplifying the sense of sound since the 1920s. Today, we create innovative technologies that make the world smarter, safer, and more connected. Our award-winning portfolio includes iconic brands such as JBL, Mark Levinson, and Revel. We are committed to exceeding the highest engineering and design standards for our customers, partners, and each other.

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