Category Manager

Are you a motivated, detail-oriented leader passionate about strategic sourcing and category management? We'd love to connect with you! We are on the lookout for an innovative Strategic Category Lead to join our inclusive European Supply Chain organization.

In this role, you will be at the helm of a group of categories, managing the growth and development of their strategy. You'll ensure our units have everything they need - the right materials, at the best price, and at the right time, all while maintaining a keen eye on quality. This will be achieved through strategic supply base management, negotiations, and contract management. In addition, you will be a critical player in mitigating supplier risk by implementing a multi-sourcing strategy.

• Develop and implement visionary strategies for long-term category development, while championing diversity and equality
• Execute sourcing plans with precision (Market and Competitor Analysis, Material Category Strategy, Category Roadmap and Value Chain Analysis)
• Work collaboratively with a dynamic team of Buyers stationed across Europe, fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment
• Build and nurture beneficial relationships with vendors to secure advantageous pricing and high-quality services
• Regularly engage in productive conversations with key suppliers on performance, planning, pricing, and future developments.
• Collaborate closely with other departments to guide product category activities, promoting cross-functional collaboration and diversity of perspectives
• Champion Continuous Improvement Process (CIPS) within assigned categories, fostering an environment of learning and growth for all team members
• Streamline price negotiations, monitor cost-saving activities, and lead internal teams towards rapid cost-reduction implementations, while ensuring equal opportunities for all stakeholders
• Adhere strictly to SOX, OHS, EHS, and compliance guidelines, maintaining a safe and inclusive work environment for everyone.
• Uphold Hitachi Energy core values of safety and integrity, showcasing responsibility for your actions while caring for your colleagues and our business

• You hold a Master's or Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or Engineering
• You possess between 3 to 5 years of experience in manufacturing and a successful track record in International Strategic Sourcing, with strategy definition and execution
• You are an analytical thinker, skilled communicator, and proactive problem-solver
• You have a solid grasp of data analysis and forecasting methodologies
• You are capable of inspiring team members in a complex matrix environment, fostering diversity and inclusion
• You have experience navigating in an intercultural, multi-business environment, promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding.
• Your command of English is excellent, both written and spoken, with negotiation-level fluency. Additional language skills are a plus.
• You are comfortable with travel around 20% - 30% of the time