Category Manager

The opportunity

The Category Manager at Hitachi, Ltd. will be responsible for developing and executing strategic category plans to optimize procurement of goods and services, drive cost savings, and ensure supplier performance within their assigned categories. This role requires a strong understanding of market dynamics, supplier relationship management, and internal stakeholder collaboration.

How you'll make impact

• Develop and implement comprehensive category strategies aligned with Hitachi's business objectives, including market analysis, spend analysis, and demand forecasting.
• Lead the end-to-end procurement process for assigned categories, from sourcing and supplier selection to contract negotiation and performance management.
• Identify and evaluate potential suppliers, conducting due diligence and risk assessments to ensure alignment with Hitachi's quality and ethical standards.
• Negotiate favorable terms and conditions with suppliers, including pricing, service level agreements, and intellectual property rights.
• Monitor supplier performance, conducting regular business reviews and implementing corrective actions as needed to ensure compliance and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders across various departments (e.g., engineering, manufacturing, sales, legal) to understand their needs and ensure successful category strategy implementation.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives and identify opportunities for value creation within the assigned categories.
• Manage supplier relationships, fostering strong partnerships and proactively addressing any issues or concerns.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, technological advancements, and regulatory changes impacting assigned categories.
• Prepare and present regular reports on category performance, savings achieved, and strategic initiatives to senior management.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant procurement policies, procedures, and ethical guidelines.

Your background

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• Master's degree preferred.Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, or category management, preferably within a large, multinational organization.Proven track record of developing and executing successful category strategies and achieving significant cost savings.
• Very good negotiation and contract management skills.Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with proficiency in data analysis tools.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in procurement software and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems (e.g., SAP Ariba, Oracle).
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Understanding of global supply chain dynamics and international trade regulations.
• Professional certification (e.g., CPSM, CIPS) is a plus.

More about us

We pride ourselves on offering a holistic range of competitive benefits to support your financial, physical and mental wellbeing and personal development. We want you to truly thrive with us, in work and out. 

We can provide more information during the recruitment process.

Our benefits offering for this role generally includes:

Private medical care and life insurance​

Access to fitness and wellness programs​

Access to benefits platform with discounts and perks​

Employee Capital Plans (PPK)​

Equipment for working from home or allowances for setting up a workplace at home​

Spectacles and contact lenses allowance​

Company events and team‑building activities​

Psychological support program​

Free parking available

You will receive more specific information during the recruitment process.