Global Category Manager - Mechanical components

Your role and responsibilities

In this role, you will be responsible for the management of several Mechanical Component Categories for ABB’s Traction division. You will support the strategic needs of all locations of division Traction by defining the sourcing strategy, securing a suitable supplier base, negotiating pricing and contractual conditions and initiating cost reduction initiatives. Main stakeholders are Engineering, R&D, Supplier Quality Management and Operative Procurement.

The work model for the role is: #Lihybrid

You will be mainly accountable for:

• Planning and implementing sourcing strategies in line with the business strategy and ensuring that the supply base/suppliers have the capability and capacity to meet current and future business requirements.
• Ensuring identification, investigation, and selection of appropriate suppliers (focusing on quality, delivery, cost, and sustainability) in collaboration with the relevant functions (Supplier Quality Management, Engineering, R&D) and in accordance with company policies.
• Identifying cost reduction or cost avoidance potential and triggering the necessary activities to materialize the potential savings, by working together with Engineering and/or R&D to (re-)evaluate the design and the cost drivers.
• Negotiating pricing and sourcing frame agreements with main suppliers, and periodically renewing price lists.
• Managing the relationship with the suppliers as well as the relevant internal stakeholders.

Our team dynamics
You will join a diverse and highly motivated team, where you will be able to thrive.

Qualifications for the role

• University degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in Strategic Sourcing, Category Management, or Procurement.
• Experience in supplier negotiations, contract management, and category strategy development.
• Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to build effective relationships with both internal and external partners in an international environment.
• Fluent English, both written and spoken. German language skills will be considered an advantage.
• Knowledge of mechanical components and experience in the railway industry will be considered an asset.
• Results-oriented mindset with the ability to drive cost optimization and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Proficiency in MS Office and ERP systems (e.g., SAP).