Global Category Manager - Electronics

Essentra PLC; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A multinational company is seeking a strategic and results-driven Global Category Manager – Electronics to lead the procurement strategy for electronic components and related services. This critical role involves optimizing supplier performance and managing risks, requiring strong negotiation skills and a solid background in electronics. You will define global category strategies, drive cost reduction initiatives, and mitigate supply chain risks. The position is based in the UK, with travel to suppliers and offices required.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in procurement/category management, ideally in electronics or high-tech industries.
• Strong knowledge of electronics manufacturing and supply markets.
• Experience with ERP and procurement tools.

Responsibilities

• Define and implement global category strategies for electronics.
• Conduct market analysis and benchmarking to identify trends, risks and opportunities.
• Identify, evaluate and onboard strategic suppliers.
• Lead supplier negotiations, performance reviews and development programs.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives through value-engineering and strategic sourcing.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Supplier relationship management

Analytical skills

Project management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, Business or related field

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

ERP and procurement tools

Job description

We are seeking a strategic and results-driven Global Category Manager – Electronics to lead the procurement strategy for electronic components, assemblies, and related services. This role is critical in optimizing supplier performance, managing risk, and driving cost efficiencies across the electronics supply base, supporting R&D, manufacturing and innovation initiatives. Approximately 20% of your time will involve travelling to suppliers and IMI offices, including locations in the UK (Worthing, Birmingham) and overseas.

Responsibilities

• Define and implement global category strategies for electronics (e.g., PCBs, sensors, connectors, embedded systems).
• Conduct market analysis and benchmarking to identify trends, risks and opportunities.
• Identify, evaluate and onboard strategic suppliers.
• Lead supplier negotiations, performance reviews and development programs.
• Ensure compliance with quality, sustainability and regulatory standards.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives through value‑engineering, TCO analysis and strategic sourcing.
• Mitigate supply chain risks through dual sourcing, inventory strategies and supplier audits.
• Lead contract negotiations and manage supplier agreements.
• Ensure adherence to corporate policies and procurement governance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, Business or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in procurement/category management, ideally in electronics or high‑tech industries.
• Strong knowledge of electronics manufacturing and supply markets.
• Proven negotiation and supplier‑relationship management skills.
• Experience with ERP and procurement tools.
• Excellent analytical, communication and project‑management skills.
• Fluent in English; other languages are a plus.