Category Manager

Location: Winterthur

Job Startdate: By Agreement

Workload: 100%

Responsabilities:

• Overall global responsibility for the assigned categories
• Develop and implement sourcing and category strategies aligned with business objectives and market conditions
• Lead sourcing activities globally, including market research, supplier identification, RFX processes, evaluations, and negotiations.
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships, conduct regular performance reviews, and drive continuous improvement initiatives
• Support supplier evaluation and development in collaboration with the Supplier Development team to ensure a reliable and competitive supply base
• Work closely with internal stakeholders (various BU’s, R&D, SCM teams, Finance and Service) to understand requirements and ensure effective procurement planning
• Support project-related procurement activities, including forecasting demand and contributing to make-or-buy decisions
• Drive cost optimization initiatives using a Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) approach without compromising quality or reliability
• Monitor market trends, opportunities and supply risks, adapt procurement tactics, and implement risk mitigation strategies

Requirements:

• BSc/MSc Mechanical Engineering
• Technical Background, Certificates in CIPS/APICS or Lean Six Sigma
• Minimum of five years of professional experience in strategic, international procurement or category management at an industrial company
• Proven ability to develop and implement effective procurement strategies, optimize supply chain processes, and manage large-scale purchasing operations.
• Proficient in ERP and procurement systems, preferably SAP S/4Hana, as well as Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong methodological knowledge of category management
• Excellent negotiation skills and intercultural competence, with a proven track record record of building and maintaining strong supplier relationships to drive cost efficiencies and supply chain reliability.
• Highly analytical mindset with strong problem-solving abilities and meticulous attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, capable of effectively engaging with cross-functional, multinational teams, and external stakeholders
• Willingness and ability to travel as required.

Our offer:

• An opportunity to shape the sustainability and environmental impact of the shipping industry. WinGD is on the leading edge of the technology which is shaping the future of the shipping industry
• A dynamic working environment, blending a long history of technology expertise with industry leading innovation across a global network
• Award winning and extraordinary products
• Multi-cultural and interdisciplinary teams offering diverse perspectives and collaborative thinking
• Dynamic and interactive working conditions. WinGD offers a non-hierarchical, agile structure where input and ideas are welcome
• In-house technology training and professional development opportunities

Applications:

We only consider a complete application incl. updated CV, letter of motivation, certificates and testimonials.