Strategic Category Manager, Materials & Sourcing

Optinova Godby Ab; Finström; On-site; EUR 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Optinova Godby Ab is seeking a Category Manager to develop and execute sourcing strategies for critical materials and services, combining chemical/polymer engineering expertise with commercial judgment.

You will drive supplier partnerships, cost optimization, risk management, and innovation across procurement, R&D, and engineering, ensuring supply continuity and long-term competitiveness.

Qualifications

• Requires MSc in a relevant technical discipline (chemical/polymer/materials/industrial).
• Proficiency in Swedish and English for communication and documentation.
• Experience in Category Management and strategic sourcing.
• Understanding of manufacturing technologies.
• Cost analysis and should-cost modeling.
• Advanced Excel and data analysis skills.

Responsibilities

• Review supplier performance, market developments, raw material prices, and supply risks—and turn insights into clear actions.
• Shape category strategies and lead sourcing projects, from creating specifications and RFQs to supplier selection and contract negotiations.
• Meet and build strategic partnerships with key suppliers to follow up on cost, quality, delivery, sustainability, innovation, and improvement plans.
• Use engineering expertise to assess materials, technologies, supplier capabilities, alternative sources, and total cost of ownership.
• Work closely with R&D, Engineering, Factories, Quality, Product Management, and Sales on NPI projects, material changes, and make-versus-buy decisions.
• Manage contracts, compliance, and mitigation plans for critical suppliers and materials to protect supply continuity.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Stakeholder management

Communication

Cross-functional collaboration

Multitasking

Education

MSc in Chemical Engineering

MSc in Polymer Engineering

MSc in Materials Engineering

MSc in Industrial Engineering

Procurement/SCM certifications (preferred)

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

Optinova Godby Ab is seeking a Category Manager to develop and execute sourcing strategies for critical materials and services, combining chemical/polymer engineering expertise with commercial judgment.

You will drive supplier partnerships, cost optimization, risk management, and innovation across procurement, R&D, and engineering, ensuring supply continuity and long-term competitiveness.