Manager, Category

A Career at HARMAN

As a technology leader that is rapidly on the move, HARMAN is filled with people who are focused on making life better. Innovation, inclusivity and teamwork are a part of our DNA. When you add that to the challenges we take on and solve together, you’ll discover that at HARMAN you can grow, make a difference and be proud of the work you do every day.

A Career at HARMAN Automotive

We’re a global, multi-disciplinary team that’s putting the innovative power of technology to work and transforming tomorrow. At HARMAN Automotive, we give you the keys to fast-track your career.

• Engineer audio systems and integrated technology platforms that augment the driving experience
• Combine ingenuity, in-depth research, and a spirit of collaboration with design and engineering excellence
• Advance in-vehicle infotainment, safety, efficiency, and enjoyment

About the Role

This role will manage Direct material component spend and technical roadmap alignments with key suppliers that includes sourcing activities for soft parts category and report into the global category director. This person needs to support driving technical supplier roadmap alignments for HARMAN’s future success for new areas in automotive, developing and executing cost savings initiatives working to meet corporate savings goals by executing year on year price and capacity negotiations as well as managing and leading VA/VE efforts to optimize spend in assigned categories. This person will support NPI initiatives and work with engineering on design-to-cost activities and execute strategies with the purpose of winning new business.

What You Will Do

• Support managing and making critical decisions on all aspects of supplier relationship including contracts, commercial/pricing, supply assurance and conflict resolution.
• Support developing and executing sub-category strategies through alignment with Harman International global category lead, business units, engineering, quality, manufacturing activities.
• Support coordination of engagement between procurement, supply chain functions and senior stake holders within the automotive division. This person will be an escalation/communication point for Harman International and the supply partner. 
• Identification, establishment and development of new suppliers, supplier relationship management, supplier portfolio management and supplier performance evaluation. 
• Supporting planning, coordination, execution, and documentation of negotiations & annual global price negotiations.
• Identification, implementation, and documentation of cost reduction potential.
• Timely coordination of procurement processes to ensure supply, cost and quality.
• Change Management and SAP master data maintenance.
• Observation of global procurement markets.

What You Need to Be Successful

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Procurement, Supply Chain Management or engineering discipline.
• 5 years strategic sourcing experience, cost analysis, negotiation, self-motivated, detailed oriented, quick learner.
• Desired experience in automotive speaker category sourcing and procurement activities within a manufacturing dominated business environment.
• Proven experience in contract management and supplier management.
• Excellent market research and trend analysis skills.
• Strong strategic/long-range planning skills.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.

Bonus Points if You Have

• Automotive speaker category experience is a plus.

What Makes You Eligible

• Be willing to travel up to 10%, domestic and international travel.
• You have a working knowledge of English.
• Due to the nature of global infrastructure, you understand that flexibility in working hours is required.
• You can obtain a government security clearance.

What We Offer

• Flexible work environment, allowing for full-time remote work one day per week for positions that can be performed outside a HARMAN or customer location.
• Access to employee discounts on world-class Harman products (JBL, HARMAN Kardon, AKG, etc.).
• Extensive training opportunities through our own HARMAN University.
• Competitive wellness benefits.
• Access to HARMAN Campus Fitness Center and Cafeteria.
• “Be Brilliant” employee recognition and rewards program.
• An inclusive and diverse work environment that fosters and encourages professional and personal development.

You Belong Here

HARMAN is committed to making every employee feel welcomed, valued, and empowered. No matter what role you play, we encourage you to share your ideas, voice your distinct perspective, and bring your whole self with you – all within a support-minded culture that celebrates what makes each of us unique. We also recognize that learning is a lifelong pursuit and want you to flourish. We proudly offer added opportunities for training, development, and continuing education, further empowering you to live the career you want.

About HARMAN: Where Innovation Unleashes Next-Level Technology

Ever since the 1920s, we’ve been amplifying the sense of sound. Today, that legacy endures, with integrated technology platforms that make the world smarter, safer, and more connected.

Across automotive, lifestyle, and digital transformation solutions, we create innovative technologies that turn ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences. Our renowned automotive and lifestyle solutions can be found everywhere, from the music we play in our cars and homes to venues that feature today’s most sought-after performers, while our digital transformation solutions serve humanity by addressing the world’s ever-evolving needs and demands. Marketing our award-winning portfolio under 16 iconic brands, such as JBL, Mark Levinson, and Revel, we set ourselves apart by exceeding the highest engineering and design standards for our customers, our partners and each other.

If you’re ready to innovate and do work that makes a lasting impact, join our talent community today!

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HARMAN is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or Protected Veterans status. HARMAN offers a great work environment, challenging career opportunities, professional training, and competitive compensation. (www.harman.com)

HARMAN is proud to be an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.