Strategic Category Manager

Position OverviewThis role is responsible for developing and executing strategic sourcing initiatives across key electronic, electro-mechanical, and mechanical categories in support of product design and manufacturing. Working closely with engineering and other cross-functional partners, the position plays a critical role in supplier selection, cost management, risk mitigation, and long-term category planning.The ideal candidate combines strong technical acumen"”preferably within electronics, RF systems, or related engineering disciplines"”with proven experience in global sourcing, supplier negotiations, and supply-chain optimization. This role supports both new product development and ongoing production by ensuring supply continuity and supplier performance.Key ResponsibilitiesCategory Strategy & Supplier ManagementDevelop and implement category strategies for electronic components, RF modules, PCBs, mechanical assemblies, plastics, and contract manufacturing servicesIdentify, evaluate, qualify, and manage suppliers to ensure capabilities align with quality, capacity, and business requirementsLead supplier evaluations, audits, performance reviews, and long-term development initiativesEstablish and manage multi-year commodity roadmaps, including cost models, should-cost analyses, and competitive benchmarksSourcing & ContractingLead RFQs and negotiations to secure pricing, supply, commercial terms, warranties, and strategic agreementsPartner with legal and compliance teams on contracts, NDAs, and long-term supply agreementsMonitor and mitigate supplier risk by tracking market trends, geopolitical factors, component obsolescence, and semiconductor industry dynamicsCross-Functional CollaborationPartner with engineering and new product development teams to support component selection, approved vendor lists, lifecycle management, and early supplier engagementCoordinate with operations and planning teams to align production requirements, demand changes, and lead-time optimizationCollaborate with quality teams on corrective actions, PPAPs, and continuous improvement effortsSupport cost-reduction initiatives, value-engineering projects, and DFM feedback for product designsCost, Inventory & Performance ManagementDrive cost-savings initiatives through negotiations, value analysis/value engineering projects, and supply-base optimizationTrack and improve key supplier performance metrics, including on-time delivery, purchase price variance, quality, lead time, supply assurance, and total cost of ownershipPartner with planning teams to maintain balanced inventory levels, buffer strategies, and production continuityAnalyze category-level data, market forecasts, and product lifecycle trends to support leadership decision-makingRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial, Systems) or a related technical field; advanced degree or supply-chain certification (e.g., CSCP, CPSM) preferred7+ years of experience in sourcing, category management, procurement, or supply chain roles within electronics manufacturing, OEM, EMS, or RF-related industriesStrong knowledge of electronic components (active, passive, RF), PCBs, EMS/contract manufacturing, and communication systemsProven success in supplier negotiations, contract development, and global sourcing strategiesProficiency with ERP/MRP systems and data-driven analysisExcellent communication, project management, and cross-functional leadership skillsCore CompetenciesTechnical Acumen: Comfortable interpreting drawings, BOMs, and engaging in technical discussions with engineeringStrategic Mindset: Develops long-term sourcing strategies and supplier roadmapsNegotiation Expertise: Achieves cost, quality, delivery, and supply objectivesRisk Mitigation Focus: Anticipates and manages market volatility, shortages, and supply disruptionsAnalytical Strength: Applies data-driven approaches to cost modeling, forecasting, and supplier analysisCollaboration & Influence: Builds strong partnerships across internal teams and with suppliersWorking Conditions & Physical RequirementsPrimarily office-based with periodic visits to production environments, supplier sites, and contract manufacturersTypical physical activities include sitting, walking, light lifting, computer use, and verbal communicationOccasional domestic and international travel may be required

Created: 2026-05-16