Category Manager - Marketing and Communication (f/m/d)

Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Inc.; Kraków; Hybrid; PLN 207,000 - 253,000; Full time

Job summary

Hitachi Energy is seeking a Category Manager to shape the future of our Marketing and Communication services portfolio. You will drive strategic sourcing initiatives, develop high-impact supplier partnerships, and champion innovation across the category, delivering value through cost optimization, quality excellence, and service reliability.

You will lead negotiations, translate global frameworks into local solutions, and build robust contracts while aligning with Hitachi Energy directives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Marketing, Communication, Business Administration, or related field; advanced education/certifications are a plus.
• 5+ years of experience, including at least 3 years in Supply Chain for indirect categories (marketing, communications, consulting, branding).
• Solid negotiation, contract development, and cross-functional leadership with international teams.

Responsibilities

• Shape the future of our supply network by designing and executing strategic sourcing initiatives.
• Lead high-value negotiations with key suppliers to secure favorable terms.
• Develop and maintain robust contracts and supplier partnerships that deliver long-term value.
• Translate global frameworks into local agreements balancing flexibility, compliance and risk management.
• Champion continuous improvement through cost-optimization initiatives and best procurement practices.

Skills

Strategic sourcing

Negotiation

Stakeholder management

Supplier relationship management

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

Power BI

SAP Ariba

MS Office

MS Teams

Job description

Job Description: The opportunity

We are looking for an exceptional Category Manager to help shape the future of our Marketing and Communication services portfolio. In this influential role, you will drive strategic sourcing initiatives, build high-impact supplier partnerships, and champion innovation across the category. You will play a key role in delivering outstanding value through cost optimization, quality excellence, service reliability, and operational agility, while skillfully navigating diverse regulatory landscapes. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact, elevate business performance, and help bring bold ideas to life through world-class procurement leadership.

How you’ll make an impact

Shape the future of our supply network by designing and executing strategic sourcing initiatives through the CIPS framework, ensuring suppliers are equipped to support both today’s priorities and tomorrow’s ambitions. Serve as a trusted advisor to stakeholders, championing sourcing excellence and fostering alignment with procurement strategies, processes, and best practices across the organization. Drive quality, resilience, and value by making informed decisions that uphold company policies and Hitachi Energy standards while mitigating commercial and operational risks. Lead high-value negotiations with key suppliers, securing competitive pricing, favorable terms, and long-term partnerships that deliver sustainable business outcomes. Translate global contractual frameworks into locally effective solutions, implementing robust agreements that balance flexibility, compliance, and risk management. Identify and cultivate high-performing suppliers by evaluating quality, delivery performance, cost competitiveness, innovation potential, and sustainability credentials. Build strong contractual foundations by developing and maintaining global and local agreements that align with Hitachi Energy directives and support strategic business objectives. Champion continuous improvement through cost-optimization initiatives, process enhancements, and the consistent application of SCM standards, compliance requirements, and best-in-class procurement practices.

Your background

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Marketing, Communication, Business Administration, or related field; advanced education/certifications are a plus. 5+ years of experience, including at least 3 years in Supply Chain for indirect categories (marketing, communications, consulting, branding). Proven ability to build strong, productive partnerships across functions, business units, and international teams, fostering alignment, innovation, and shared success. Established ability to negotiate mutually beneficial agreements, develop robust contracts, and build strategic supplier partnerships that deliver long-term value and support business success. Solid project management and execution skills. Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making abilities. Displayed strong leadership by empowering colleagues through coaching, mentorship, and knowledge sharing. Strong proficiency in MS Office, MS Teams, Power BI, SAP Ariba, and fluency in spoken & written English.

More about us

We believe great work thrives in an environment where people feel genuinely supported and fairly rewarded. Our benefits are designed to create real value for every individual – fueling engagement, performance, and growth. By prioritizing well‑being, we build a workplace where personal and organizational success grow together.

The minimum salary for this position in the location specified is as follows: Italy: starting from 52.700 € gross per year as minimum salary. The final offer will be based on candidate location, skills and qualifications, experience, and aligned with internal pay structures. This role may be open in multiple locations. If the salary information listed is not applicable for your current home location, salary details relevant to your location will be discussed with you at a later stage.

Our benefit offering is tailored based on your country of employment and generally includes:

• Competitive salary and incentives
• Well-being and care
• Paid and unpaid leave
• Flexible work options
• Benefits that support your financial security

Accessibility and reasonable accommodation

Qualified individuals with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access the Hitachi Energy career site as a result of your disability. You may request reasonable accommodations by completing a general inquiry form on our website. Please include your contact information and specific details about your required accommodation to support you during the job application process. This is solely for job seekers with disabilities requiring accessibility assistance or an accommodation in the job application process. Messages left for other purposes will not receive a response.

Use of Al and automated tools in recruitment

As part of our recruitment process, Hitachi Energy uses digital and automated tools, including Al-supported solutions, to assist with activities such as application screening, job matching, and interview scheduling. These tools are designed to support our recruiters and do not replace human decision-making. Candidate data is processed in accordance with applicable data protection and employment laws as well as Hitachi's Global Data Privacy Notice.

Background Screening and Security Checks

As part of the hiring process, Hitachi Energy conducts pre-employment background checks that may include verification of employment history, education, criminal records, and other relevant information, in accordance with applicable laws. For certain roles—particularly those involving access to sensitive information, financial responsibilities, client data, regulated environments, or security-sensitive functions—additional or more comprehensive background or security screenings may be required. These may include, but are not limited to, enhanced criminal history checks, credit history reviews (where legally permissible), sanctions screening, or other due diligence measures aligned with the responsibilities of the position. The scope and depth of any background or security review will be determined based on the nature of the role and business necessity, and will always be conducted in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Candidates will be notified and, where required, asked to provide consent prior to the initiation of any such checks.

Hitachi brings together the world’s greatest minds to help breathe life into new possibilities – and drive innovation for a better future. That’s why we look for individuals who share our pioneering spirit, have imaginative ideas and are fearless when it comes to tackling the world’s biggest challenges. Our people love technology – and they love making a difference. They have a passion for finding new solutions and working with brilliant colleagues. Every day they dedicate themselves to a huge range of exciting projects, contributing to the Hitachi vision around the globe. From engineering new sustainability solutions that conserve water and energy to creating the infrastructure for the smart cities of tomorrow, there’s no challenge too great for our pioneers. And there’s no shortage of opportunities for you to make a difference. Come and experience the dynamic, collaborative and creative environments where your ideas are welcome and new discoveries are waiting. To help you grow to your full potential, we strive to support our employees in their career aspirations and promote the freedom to explore new horizons.

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