Global Category Manager - Electronics

Sodexo; Stevenage; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global services company is seeking a Global Category Manager specializing in Electronics to optimize procurement strategies. This role involves supplier management, market analysis, and achieving cost efficiencies in electronic components procurement. Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor’s degree and over 5 years in procurement within high-tech industries. Strong negotiation and analytical skills are essential, along with fluency in English. This role is based in Stevenage, UK, with travel opportunities across Europe.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in procurement/category management, ideally in electronics or high-tech industries.
• Strong knowledge of electronics manufacturing and supply markets.
• Fluent in English; other languages are a plus.

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.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives through value engineering and strategic sourcing.
• Lead contract negotiations and manage supplier agreements.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Project management skills

Education

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

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

ERP tools

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.

Supplier Management

• Identify, evaluate, and onboard strategic suppliers.
• Lead supplier negotiations, performance reviews, and development programs.
• Ensure compliance with quality, sustainability, and regulatory standards.

Cost and Risk Management

• Drive cost reduction initiatives through value engineering, TCO analysis, and strategic sourcing.
• Mitigate supply chain risks through dual sourcing, inventory strategies, and supplier audits.

Contracting and Compliance

• Lead contract negotiations and manage supplier agreements.
• Ensure adherence to corporate policies and procurement governance.

Location: Stevenage, UK (Preferred)

Reporting to Global Supply Management Category Director for Indirect Services. Travel: Up to 10–20 %, mainly across Europe.

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.