Regional Category Manager

The Regional Category Manager leads the strategic management of assigned purchasing categories within the region. This position is responsible for defining and implementing sourcing strategies, managing supplier relationships, leading commercial negotiations, and identifying opportunities for cost savings and value creation.

The role collaborates closely with Purchasing, Supply Chain, Engineering, Program Management, Sales, and other business stakeholders to ensure alignment between category strategies and organizational objectives. The Regional Category Manager continuously monitors market dynamics, supports risk management activities, drives supplier performance improvements, and provides market intelligence to support business decision-making. This position also contributes to sustainability, quality, and compliance initiatives while ensuring effective execution of procurement processes.

• Develop and maintain category strategies aligned with business and regional objectives.
• Define, manage, and regularly update supplier sourcing strategies and sourcing lists.
• Identify, evaluate, and develop potential suppliers to strengthen the supply base and reduce risk.
• Analyze market trends, supplier capabilities, and pricing developments to support strategic decisions.
• Lead commercial negotiations and establish contractual agreements with suppliers.
• Act as the primary purchasing interface between the organization and suppliers.
• Drive cost-saving initiatives and ensure achievement of purchasing targets.
• Support Advanced Purchasing activities during complex sourcing and negotiation processes.
• Manage supplier escalation activities and support issue resolution according to established processes.
• Forecast pricing trends and communicate market developments to stakeholders.
• Report category performance and provide recommendations for continuous improvement.
• Promote sustainability, quality, and safety standards throughout purchasing activities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support business growth and operational excellence

• Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Finance, or a related field.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in Purchasing, Strategic Sourcing, Category Management, or Procurement.
• At least 1 year of experience within the automotive industry.
• Strong experience in supplier relationship management and commercial negotiations.
• Knowledge of category strategy development, portfolio management, and sourcing processes.
• Experience with contract management and procurement practices.
• Understanding of risk management principles related to suppliers and supply chains.
• Advanced analytical and reporting skills.
• Proficiency in SAP, Microsoft Office, Power BI, or similar business systems.
• Strong project management and stakeholder management capabilities.
• Advanced English communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively within global and remote teams.
• International business exposure is preferred.
• Project leadership experience is considered an asset.