Global Category Manager – Machining

Overview

In this role you will lead global ownership of a direct materials subcategory, shaping the 3-year roadmap and driving supplier excellence. You’ll partner with cross-functional teams to ensure supply continuity, regional execution, and measurable improvements in on-time delivery and capacity. You will steer global negotiations, localisation and dual-sourcing initiatives, and total cost optimization to unlock long-term value. This is an impactful, leadership-led position in a growing, mission-driven company focused on engineering excellence and sustainable performance.

Responsibilities

• Define and lead global strategy for the direct materials subcategory, including supplier segmentation, risk management, and cost/value optimization
• Manage strategic supplier relationships worldwide and drive improvements in OTD, PPM, and capacity
• Lead global category projects such as localisation, dual-sourcing, and VA/VE programs
• Execute sourcing strategy (RFx, long-term agreements, cost models, and TCO improvement)
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, Operations and Finance to ensure supply continuity and qualification
• Provide leadership to enable cross-functional collaboration across global and regional teams

Key requirements

• 8+ years in procurement or category management within direct materials
• Experience leading global and regional sourcing projects and supplier negotiations
• Strong commercial acumen, contract management, and analytical capability
• Proven ability to influence stakeholders at multiple levels
• Ability to balance strategic (global) and operational (regional) priorities
• Proficiency with ERP and procurement systems; strong Excel/analytics skills
• English speaker
• Experience in multi-site or matrix manufacturing environments
• Exposure to industrial, mechanical, machinery, or similar supply bases
• Knowledge of should-cost, VA/VE, DfM, and supplier development

• influencing at multiple levels
• problem-solving
• cross-functional collaboration
• ERP and procurement systems
• Excel/analytics
• RFx

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