Lead Global Category Manager (Lighting/Electrical)

Job Summary

This position is responsible developing and implementing category strategies that support Harley-Davidson business objectives. This position is responsible for negotiation, contract management and change management while measuring quality, cost, and delivery performance of all suppliers.

Job Responsibilities

• Works independently, requiring guidance on only the most complex situations.
• Leads others to solve complex problems in Supply Management using analytical thought, exercising judgment, and identifying innovative solutions.
• Coaches, mentors, and trains less tenured and / or less experienced colleagues. 
• Communicates difficult concepts in Supply Management and negotiates with others to effectively influence as appropriate.
• Support development of and deployment of strategic initiatives to facilitate cross-business synergies across a rationalized set of global and regional preferred supplier partners.
• Negotiate and manage key strategic supplier contracts and relationships including the management and execution of master supply agreements.
• Review, approve, monitor, and report compliance to category agreements and strategies based upon Harley-Davidson SM policies
• Present new planning tools, methods, technical analysis, standards, and procurement opportunities with senior management that are aligned with SM/Harley-Davidson strategic plans and cost reduction initiatives. Plan, prepare and execute annual value proposition for the owned spend, and support execution with the business cross functional teams.
• Lead Supplier Business Reviews with assigned suppliers.
• Identify potential financial / operational threats to the business and develop / deploy proactive supplier risk mitigation strategies to ensure supply continuity.
• Works collaboratively across different functions including Developmental Purchasing, Indirect Procurement, Supply Chain Operations, Logistics, Engineering, Manufacturing, Marketing, etc.…
• Communicates difficult or sensitive information and builds relationships with Suppliers, Product Development and Manufacturing.

Education Requirements

Education Specifications

Experience Requirements

Required:

• Typically requires a minimum of 8 years of related experience in category management, procurement, supply chain, and/or operations
• Ability to apply knowledge of best practices in Developmental Purchasing, Indirect Procurement, Supply Base, or Supply Chain and how their own area integrates with others to drive results. 
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively within and / or lead a group or team providing guidance to members.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment

Preferred:

• 3 - 5 years’ professional negotiating experience in a global business environment
• 3 - 5 years’ professional experience improving supplier performance across multiple manufacturing facilities
• APQP experience
• Demonstrated CI experience

• Motorcycle riding experience and knowledge in Harley-Davidson motorcycles and accessories.