Senior Global Category Manager - Metals

We're partnering with a global industry leader to find a Senior Global Category Manager - Metals to drive category strategy, supplier excellence, and innovation across a high-impact materials portfolio basednear to Mannheim.

About the Role

As Senior Global Category Manager for Metals, you'll take full responsibility for defining and executing the global sourcing strategy for metal raw materials that underpin the company's diverse product portfolio.

You'll act as a strategic partner to internal stakeholders, ensuring cost-effective, sustainable, and reliable supply in a market defined by volatility and change.

Working within an international sourcing organization, you'll help build the bridge between procurement, production, and innovation - driving long-term value creation through strong supplier partnerships and data-driven decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the global metals sourcing strategy, aligning with business growth and sustainability objectives

• Lead tenders, contract negotiations, and supplier performance management for key metals categories

• Monitor and anticipate global metals market trends to inform proactive sourcing decisions

• Identify, evaluate, and develop strategic supplier partnerships to secure quality, supply continuity, and innovation

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders across production, engineering, and supply chain to meet manufacturing needs

• Drive initiatives around supplier innovation, sustainability, and technology sharing

• Ensure compliance with regulations, company standards, and ethical sourcing principles

About You

• University degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or related field

• Experience in procurement or category management within metal raw materials (e.g. steel, copper, aluminium)

• Proven experience managing large supplier portfolios and strategic sourcing initiatives

• Strong negotiation, analytical, and stakeholder management skills

• Fluent in English & German language skills desirable

• Experience with SAP and solid understanding of category management methodologies

• A proactive mindset, resilience under pressure, and passion for continuous improvement and sustainability

What's on Offer

• A strategic, high-visibility role within a global manufacturing environment

• The chance to shape sourcing strategy for one of the company's most critical material categories

• A culture that values innovation, teamwork, and sustainability

• Personalized onboarding and access to advanced professional development programs

• Excellent opportunities for career progression within an international organization