Global Category Manager

KLA-TENCOR (SINGAPORE) PTE. LTD.; Singapore; On-site; SGD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading semiconductor firm in Singapore is seeking a Global Category Manager for EFEMs. This role involves developing sourcing strategies, managing supplier relationships, and negotiating contracts. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience in strategic sourcing within the semiconductor industry, a solid technical foundation in EFEMs, and strong negotiation skills. The position may require occasional international travel. This opportunity offers a chance to lead critical sourcing initiatives and collaborate across multiple teams.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in strategic sourcing or category management.
• Deep technical knowledge of EFEMs and waiver handling robotics.
• Experience with supplier audits and cost modeling.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a category strategy for EFEMs.
• Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers.
• Lead supplier performance management and supplier relationship initiatives.
• Manage contract lifecycle and lead negotiations.

Skills

Technical expertise in semiconductor manufacturing

Negotiation skills

Strong communication skills

Analytical skills

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Master’s degree or certifications (CPSM, PMP)

Job description

The Global Category Manager for EFEMs (Equipment Front End Module ) will be responsible for leading the sourcing strategy and supplier management for a critical category of semiconductor manufacturing equipment - EFEMs. This role requires a strong technical understanding of EFEMs, including wafer handling systems, robotics, and mechanical parts, as well as the ability to drive strategic initiatives across global supply chains.

Job responsibilities

Technical Sourcing & Category Strategy

• Develop and execute a comprehensive category strategy for EFEMs, including sub-category strategy for wafer transfer modules, load ports, aligners, robots, controllers, Fan filters, Frame structure etc.
• Align strategy with stake-holders, business objectives & technology roadmaps. Drive actions to execute the strategy.
• Market research, identification, screening and qualification of new suppliers to meet KLA’s technical and commercial roadmap.
• Collaborate with R&D to align sourcing decisions with equipment specifications and fab integration requirements.

Supplier Qualification & Supplier Management

• Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers to support innovation, capacity expansion, and risk mitigation.
• Lead supplier performance management through scorecards, business reviews and corrective action plans.
• Drive supplier development initiatives, including cost reduction programs, quality improvement, and lead time optimization.
• Supplier relationship management and lead escalations.

Contracting & Negotiation

• Lead complex negotiations on the terms of Purchase agreements.
• Manage contract lifecycle, including renewals, amendments, and dispute resolution.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with engineering, NPI and manufacturing teams to understand technical requirements and ensure supplier capabilities.
• Support new product introductions (NPIs) by aligning sourcing strategies with design and production timelines.
• Work closely with finance and legal teams to manage budgets, risks, and compliance.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Monitor geopolitical, economic, and environmental risks affecting the EFEM supply base.
• Develop dual sourcing strategies and inventory buffers for long-lead or single-source items.
• Ensure compliance with export controls, RoHS, REACH, and other regulatory requirements.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, Supply Chain, or related field; Master’s or certifications (CPSM, PMP) preferred.
• Requires a blend of technical and business expertise as well as solid interpersonal and negotiation skills to contribute, lead, and manage at all organizational levels, both internally and externally.
• 10+ years of experience in strategic sourcing or category management in semiconductor or high-tech equipment.
• Deep technical knowledge of EFEMs, including wafer handling robotics, atmospheric transfer systems, and cleanroom automation.
• International travel may be required. (<=20%)
• Experience with supplier audits, technical negotiations, and cost modeling.
• Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills.