Global Category Manager – Mechanical Components
About the Role: As a Global Category Manager, you will play a strategic role in influencing business results across all Aptiv’ s business sectors, with a primary focus on the Connection Systems (CS) Business Unit. You will lead the global sourcing strategy for one of the key mechanical commodities which is cable value stream. You’ll lead a global $ 250M+ turnover, around 50 suppliers, a global team of 3-4 buyers and act as a key thought leader in driving supply chain value, innovation, and efficiency. This role will report directly to the Corporate Director Global Mechanical.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Develop and lead global sourcing strategies for the mechanical commodity category.
2. Manage strategic supplier relationships, contract negotiations, and risk mitigation.
3. Ensure continuity of supply to meet both current and future customer demand.
4. Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Commercial, and Manufacturing teams on product development and sourcing decisions.
5. Optimize procurement operations by aligning category strategies with corporate growth and sustainability objectives.
6. Drive value engineering, cost reduction, and inventory optimization initiatives.
7. Build a responsive and agile procurement team capable of meeting evolving customer and market needs.
8. Lead strategic supplier localization efforts to enhance resiliency and reduce lead times.
9. Guide continuous improvement efforts using lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
10. Support CAPEX and logistics strategy reviews to improve service and reduce working capital.
11. Create a culture of collaboration, integrity, and performance in alignment with Aptiv’s values.
Key Metrics (KPIs):
12. Supply continuity and resiliency
13. Cost reduction and cost transparency
14. Long-term supplier strategy and partnerships
15. Inventory and working capital reduction
16. Quality and supplier performance
17. Value engineering execution
18. Cash flow improvement
What We're Looking For:
19. Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or a related field; MBA preferred
20. Minimum 5 years’ experience in strategic sourcing of mechanical components (preferably in the automotive industry)
21. Deep understanding of copper materials, metallic component manufacturing, and stamping processes
22. Proven success leading cross-functional global teams in a matrixed organization
23. Strong negotiation and supplier management skills
24. Ability to analyze financials, market trends, and supplier capabilities
25. Excellent communication, influencing, and problem-solving abilities
26. High integrity with a bias for action and customer focus
27. Willingness to travel globally up to 10%
Preferred Experience:
28. Experience navigating high-growth environments
29. Background in lean supply chain practices
30. Familiarity with sustainability and localization strategies in procurement
31. Demonstrated ability to lead procurement in early-stage product development
Why join us?
You can grow at Aptiv. Aptiv provides an inclusive work environment where all individuals can grow and develop, regardless of gender, ethnicity or beliefs. You can have an impact. Safety is a core Aptiv value; we want a safer world for us and our children, one with: Zero fatalities, Zero injuries, Zero accidents.
You have support. We ensure you have the resources and support you need to take care of your family and your physical and mental health with a competitive health insurance package.
Your Benefits at Aptiv:
32. Private health care effective day 1 of employment
33. Life and accident insurance
34. Paid Time Off (Holidays, Vacation, Designated time off, Parental leave)
35. Relocation assistance may be available
36. Learning and development opportunities
37. Discount programs with various manufacturers and retailers
38. Recognition for innovation and excellence
39. Opportunities to give back to the community
40. Tuition Reimbursement
41. Adoption Assistance
42. Fertility Coverage