Category Manager - Contract Manufacturing, EMS Job at DSJ Global in Chicago

Global EMS Category Strategy Leadership:

• Develop, implement, and execute a comprehensive global EMS category strategy aligned with the company's product roadmap and operational objectives.
• Identify and leverage market trends, geopolitical shifts, and technological advancements to position the supply chain for competitive advantage.

Supplier Relationship & Performance Management:

• Own strategic relationships with global EMS suppliers, fostering senior-level engagement and joint business planning.
• Implement robust performance management frameworks focused on quality, delivery, cost, and innovation.
• Serve as the escalation point for complex cross-functional issues, driving root cause resolution and systemic improvements.

Strategic Sourcing & Commercial Excellence:

• Lead global sourcing initiatives and quotation processes using advanced financial modeling and total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis.
• Conduct high-stakes negotiations to secure sustainable, competitive pricing and long-term commercial models.
• Negotiate and finalize multi-year global EMS agreements, ensuring favorable terms, IP protection, and risk mitigation.

Cost Management & Value Engineering:

• Drive aggressive cost improvement and annual reduction initiatives (e.g., VA/VE, Design-to-Cost) in collaboration with Engineering and Operations.
• Utilize data analysis and market intelligence to develop predictive costing models and support data-driven negotiations.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or related field.
• Experience: Minimum 5 years of experience managing and strategically sourcing global EMS suppliers in a complex technology or manufacturing environment.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong strategic problem-solving and negotiation skills focused on long-term, win-win outcomes.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills across all organizational levels and functions.
• Advanced data analysis capabilities with deep understanding of forecasting, cost drivers, and TCO methodologies.
• High proficiency in MS Office or Google Workspace, especially advanced Excel/Sheets (pivot tables, formulas, financial modeling).
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, global environment.