Global Category Manager- Automation & Electrical Items (f/m/d)
gea· ES04 GEA Process Engineering S.A.
About this role
We are looking for a Global Category Manager – Automation & Electrical Items to drive a forward‑looking category strategy on a global scale. In this role, you will lead high‑impact sourcing initiatives, manage strategic supplier relationships, and deliver sustainable cost and value optimization across regions and businesses.
You will operate at the intersection of procurement, engineering, and suppliers, acting as a trusted partner for our divisions and business units worldwide.
You will operate at the intersection of procurement, engineering, and suppliers, acting as a trusted partner for our divisions and business units worldwide.
Responsibilities / Tasks
As Global Category Manager, you will own the global strategy for Automation & Electrical Items and translate market intelligence into tangible value for the organization.
Key responsibilities include:
Strategy & Market Intelligence
- Define and continuously develop the global category strategy for Automation & Electrical Items
- Analyze global market trends, supply base dynamics, pricing, volumes, and product developments
- Provide structured global market overviews and insights to internal stakeholders
Sourcing & Supplier Management
- Lead large and strategic RFQs and negotiate regional and global framework agreements
- Conduct negotiations on prices, terms, and conditions at global and regional level
- Conclude framework agreements in close cooperation with Legal and Compliance
- Manage and further develop strategic supplier relationships, focusing on cost, quality, availability, and innovation
- Consolidate and optimize the global/regional supplier base
Cost & Value Optimization
- Assess and manage Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) across the category
- Independently identify cost‑saving opportunities, including price and technical comparisons
- Lead cross‑functional projects to realize sustainable savings and process improvements
- Track savings development across divisions and implement countermeasures in case of deviations
Stakeholder & Project Leadership
- Act as an interface between vendors, procurement, and engineering
- Coordinate closely with divisions, business units, and legal entities worldwide
- Support local organizations in negotiations and implementation of savings initiatives
- Plan and facilitate workshops with suppliers and internal experts to unlock additional value and innovation
- Monitor and steer category spend toward preferred suppliers
Your Profile / Qualifications
Educational Background
- University degree (Bachelor or higher) in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or similar
- Project Management qualification is a strong plus
Professional Knowledge & Experience
- 5+ years of experience in procurement/category management
- Proven contract management experience
- Must have strong technical and market knowledge of Automation and Electrical Panels
- Experience working in global, matrix and centralized procurement organizations
- Solid background in global negotiations and supplier management
- Strong project management and change implementation skills
- High cultural awareness and experience working internationally
Other Skills & Competencies
- Fluent in English; German and/or Spanish are a plus
- Ability to lead and influence international and cross‑cultural teams
- Strong stakeholder management and networking skills
- Strategic mindset with excellent analytical and problem‑solving abilities
- Comfortable working in complex matrix environments
- High level of ownership, accountability, and reliability
- Clear, confident, and convincing communication style
We offer:
- Attractive compensation package aligned with experience, responsibilities, and international exposure
- Private health insurance plan
- Employee Assistance Program
- Flexible working hours and a hybrid working model (up to two days per week remote)
- 23 days of vacation per year
- Great work environment as part of a collaborative team
- Continuous internal training and career development opportunities, both nationally and internationally
- The opportunity to join a company recognized as a Top Employer 2026
Did we spark your interest?
Then please click apply above to access our guided application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the salary disclosed for the Global Category Manager- Automation & Electrical Items (f/m/d) position at gea?
The salary for this Global Category Manager- Automation & Electrical Items (f/m/d) role at gea is not publicly listed. Click "Apply Now" to learn more about the compensation package on their official careers page.
Where is the Global Category Manager- Automation & Electrical Items (f/m/d) position at gea located?
This Global Category Manager- Automation & Electrical Items (f/m/d) role at gea is based in Alcobendas : C/Cantabria, 2. Edificio Amura.. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
Is the Global Category Manager- Automation & Electrical Items (f/m/d) role at gea full-time or part-time?
This is listed as a Full time position. It is posted as a Global Category Manager- Automation & Electrical Items (f/m/d) role in the ES04 GEA Process Engineering S.A. department at gea.
Which team or department does the Global Category Manager- Automation & Electrical Items (f/m/d) at gea belong to?
This Global Category Manager- Automation & Electrical Items (f/m/d) position is part of the ES04 GEA Process Engineering S.A. department at gea. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
How do I apply for the Global Category Manager- Automation & Electrical Items (f/m/d) position at gea?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to gea's official application portal hosted on workday where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Global Category Manager- Automation & Electrical Items (f/m/d) job at gea posted?
This Global Category Manager- Automation & Electrical Items (f/m/d) position at gea was posted on Sep 9, 2026. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
Global Category Manager- Automation & Electrical Items (f/m/d)
gea
You'll be redirected to gea's official application page on Workday.