Category Manager
This position is responsible for managing the sourcing and supplier ecosystem for electronic components used in engineered products. The role supports cost optimization, supplier performance, and supply continuity across both existing products and new development programs. Working closely with engineering, operations, and supply chain stakeholders, the Category Manager helps translate technical requirements into effective sourcing strategies that balance cost, quality, and availability.
A strong technical foundation is essential, along with an understanding of electronic components, supplier manufacturing capabilities, and cost drivers.
Primary Accountabilities
• Manage electronics categories such as PCB assemblies, semiconductors, passive components, and electromechanical parts.
• Support commercial negotiations with suppliers, including pricing, lead times, and contractual terms.
• Collaborate with engineering teams on component selection, design-for-cost initiatives, and product lifecycle decisions.
• Review and evaluate supplier quotations, cost models, and market dynamics to support sourcing decisions.
• Track and support supplier performance related to quality, delivery, and responsiveness.
• Contribute to new product development efforts by identifying capable suppliers and supporting cost target achievement.
• Maintain ongoing supplier relationships and assist with performance improvement initiatives.
• Support supply risk assessment, continuity planning, and mitigation activities.
Qualifications & Experience
• Bachelor’s degree in a technical discipline such as Electrical, Electronics, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering.
• 3–7 years of experience in sourcing, procurement, supplier engineering, electronics manufacturing, or category management.
• Working knowledge of electronic components and printed circuit board assemblies.
• Strong analytical capability with a structured approach to problem solving.
• Ability to collaborate effectively across engineering, operations, and supplier organizations.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills with strong organizational discipline.
Preferred Background
• Experience working directly with electronics suppliers or contract manufacturers.
• Exposure to cost modeling, quotation analysis, or should-cost methodologies.
• Experience supporting global or multi-region supply chains.
• Background in industrial, automotive, or electronics manufacturing environments.
Measures of Success
• Contribution to annual cost and productivity objectives.
• Improvement in supplier delivery, quality, and responsiveness.
• Effective support of new product launches.
• Reduced exposure to supply risk.
• Consistent execution of category and supplier management activities.
Appliances, Electrical, and Electronics Manufacturing and Electrical Equipment Manufacturing
Purchasing, Supply Chain, and Strategy/Planning
Full-time