Category Manager, Motors & Power Transmission
*** This role can offer some remote flexibility; however, candidates must be based in SC, NC, CT, or MI. ***
ABOUT THE ROLE
A leading global industrial manufacturer is seeking a strategic Category Manager to lead sourcing across its Metal Fabrication and Structural Components portfolio in North America. This role will drive category strategy, supplier optimization, and cost competitiveness across a complex network of fabrication suppliers supporting high-volume production.
The position requires deep experience across sheet metal, stampings, castings, forgings, tubing, and welded assemblies, with a strong focus on cost structure analysis, supplier development, and long-term sourcing strategy execution. This is a high-impact, cross-functional role partnering closely with engineering, operations, and quality to enable scalable and cost-effective production.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develop and execute category strategies across motion and power transmission components, including: Electric motors and drive units, Traction and gearless drive systems, Power transmission components (ropes, belts, sheaves, terminations)
- Build upon existing sourcing strategies, identifying opportunities to enhance supplier positioning, cost models, and overall category performance
- Lead dual sourcing, supplier segmentation, and sourcing footprint optimization to reduce risk and improve supply continuity for critical components
- Conduct detailed cost breakdown and should-cost analysis (materials, manufacturing processes, assembly complexity) to support data-driven negotiations
- Drive cost savings and value creation initiatives, delivering measurable financial impact through competitive sourcing, benchmarking, and supplier negotiations
- Negotiate and implement long-term agreements (LTAs), including pricing structures, capacity commitments, and payment terms
- Manage a supplier base of engineered component manufacturers and OEM partners, driving improvements in cost, quality, delivery, and technical capability
- Lead supplier performance management, including KPIs, business reviews, and structured supplier development plans
- Navigate a competitive and constrained supply environment, managing cost pressures, supplier leverage challenges, and inflationary impacts
- Partner closely with Engineering to support design-to-cost, component standardization, and product performance requirements
- Support new product introductions and product transitions, ensuring supplier readiness, technical alignment, and cost competitiveness
- Act as a key escalation point for critical supply, quality, or performance issues impacting production or product reliability
- Monitor market dynamics, supplier capacity, and global risks, proactively adapting sourcing strategies to maintain supply assurance
- Provide leadership with clear visibility into category performance, cost drivers, risks, and strategic opportunities
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, or related field
- 7-10+ years of experience in strategic sourcing or category management within rotating equipment, motion systems, or mechanical power transmission categories
- Strong understanding of motors, drive systems, power transmission components, or mechanical assemblies
- Proven track record of cost savings delivery, supplier negotiations, and category strategy execution
- Experience managing engineered component suppliers and OEM relationships
- Strong analytical capabilities with experience in cost modeling and data-driven sourcing decisions
- Ability to operate effectively in a cross-functional, matrixed global manufacturing environment
FAQs
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