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 of Aptiv’s business sectors, with a primary focus on the Connection Systems (CS) Business Unit. You will lead the global sourcing strategy for key mechanical commodities—specifically copper strips and metallic components, two of the most critical raw material streams for the CS business.
You’ll manage a global team of 5–6 buyers and act as a key thought leader in driving supply chain value, innovation, and efficiency. This role will report directly to the VP of Supply Chain – Connection Systems with a dotted-line reporting relationship to the Corporate VP of Mechanical Categories.
Key Responsibilities:
Develop and lead global sourcing strategies for the mechanical commodity category.
Manage strategic supplier relationships, contract negotiations, and risk mitigation.
Ensure continuity of supply to meet both current and future customer demand.
Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Commercial, and Manufacturing teams on product development and sourcing decisions.
Optimize procurement operations by aligning category strategies with corporate growth and sustainability objectives.
Drive value engineering, cost reduction, and inventory optimization initiatives.
Build a responsive and agile procurement team capable of meeting evolving customer and market needs.
Lead strategic supplier localization efforts to enhance resiliency and reduce lead times.
Guide continuous improvement efforts using lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
Support CAPEX and logistics strategy reviews to improve service and reduce working capital.
Create a culture of collaboration, integrity, and performance in alignment with Aptiv’s values.
Key Metrics (KPIs):
Supply continuity and resiliency
Cost reduction and cost transparency
Long-term supplier strategy and partnerships
Inventory and working capital reduction
Quality and supplier performance
Value engineering execution
Cash flow improvement
What We're Looking For:
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or a related field; MBA preferred
Minimum 5 years’ experience in strategic sourcing of mechanical components (preferably in the automotive industry)
Deep understanding of copper materials, metallic component manufacturing, and stamping processes
Proven success leading cross-functional global teams in a matrixed organization
Strong negotiation and supplier management skills
Ability to analyze financials, market trends, and supplier capabilities
Excellent communication, influencing, and problem-solving abilities
High integrity with a bias for action and customer focus
Willingness to travel globally up to 10%
Preferred Experience:
Experience navigating high-growth environments
Background in lean supply chain practices
Familiarity with sustainability and localization strategies in procurement
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.
Some see differences. We see perspectives that make us stronger.
Diversity and Inclusion are sources of innovation and creativity, both of which are essential to Aptiv’s success. Everyday our diverse team comes together, drives innovation, pursues solutions, and meets challenges using their unique abilities, perspectives and talents, changing what tomorrow brings. When you join our team, you’ll get encouraged to think boldly, express your viewpoint and innovate as a matter of habit.
Some see technology. We see a way to make connections.
At Aptiv, we don’t just see the world differently; we work to change reality. That means developing technology that rewrites the rules of what’s possible in the pursuit of making transportation safer, greener and more connected. Today there are more than 190,000 of us globally, located in 49 countries, and united by one mission. Join the movement and together, let’s change tomorrow.
Your Benefits at Aptiv:
Private health care effective day 1 of employment
Life and accident insurance
Paid Time Off (Holidays, Vacation, Designated time off, Parental leave)
Relocation assistance may be available
Learning and development opportunities
Discount programs with various manufacturers and retailers
Recognition for innovation and excellence
Opportunities to give back to the community
Tuition Reimbursement
Adoption Assistance
Fertility Coverage
Apply today, and together let’s change tomorrow!
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Aptiv is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.