Senior Category Manager Materials & Components

Job Scope
High level purpose of function.
The Senior Category Manager will:
Take end-to-end ownership of initiatives, from strategic definition through handson operational implementation and follow-up.
Define and implement the category strategy aligned with the company strategy and with internal stakeholders for complex or a wide range of Categories (including but not limited to Mechanical Parts, Chemicals, Active Material)
Build and adjust the supply base, the supplier panel to Lyten’s Ambitions
Negotiate and execute on contracts and recommend the suppliers for new projects
Drive the supplier performance and optimizations related to cost, quality, deliveries, sustainability,
Manage and develop the relationship with Lyten’s suppliers
Lead process improvement and development for the Material sourcing process

Key Responsibilities
Overall areas of responsibilities and activities
Defines the Sourcing Strategy for complex or a wide range of assigned Categories (including but not limited to Mechanicals, Chemicals, Active Material), in line with the company ambition and with the different stakeholders (R&D, CPM, Sustainability, Quality…), evaluate the different risks and implement mitigation plans. 
Scout the market, evaluate suppliers’ capabilities and define the suppliers panel for the different projects, depending on stakeholders needs and in accordance with the company strategy. 
Build and maintain strong, long-term supplier relationships and develop the local supplier base. 
Send and pilot RFQs, negotiate long term contracts with best possible Quality Cost Delivery Sustainability contractual conditions with suppliers, with the ambition to achieve Best in Class performance for Lyten Programs 
Propose Sourcing and supplier contact the Sourcing Committee and implement signed contracts into ERP and support with Purchase Orders when necessary
Responsible for the global Supplier performance (QDCS) from Sourcing Phase to EOP and drive continuous improvement 
Works tightly with different functions and in line with the company gates expectations. Main stakeholders: R&D, Strategy, Sustainability and IP/Legal counterparts, internal clients such as CPM and Purchasing project team, for the different entities of the group.
Lead the Process Development and Improvement of the Material Sourcing Process

Accountability/Authorization
Budget responsibility: No
Direct reports: No
Work environment responsibility: Yes
Authorized to decide on investments according to role and policy.
Leadership: Senior Category manager will drive complex categories and may have to lead the category specialist supporting the activities of this category. 
Reports to the Purchasing Senior Manager / Director 
Requirements

Educational background and previous experience required for the role
Qualifications and Experience
MBA or MSc in relevant Engineering Fields or Supply Chain
Around 8+ years of experience with strategic and operational sourcing and procurement of materials or components in the automotive industry or and an international environment.

Specific skills
English written and oral skills, other European or Asian language nice to have 
Problem Solving  
Able to operate comfortably across a wide scope of responsibilities, from strategic and complex initiatives to hands-on, day-to-day tasks.
Cost model approach of direct purchasing: material or components 

Personal success factors
Strong collaboration skills internal and external 
Strong ability to drive projects to completion in line with deadlines in an independent manner but with support and alignment from management and stakeholders 
Passionate about mission of Lyten  
Strong interest to develop excellent purchasing skills, including negotiation skills, strategy development and supplier management. 
Ability to multitask and prioritize. 
Collaborative attitude 
Capacity to travel, with regular visits of the Lyten’s site and suppliers.