Description
We're looking for a Category Manager to join our team at Ford Motor Company.PackageManager is responsible for the end-to-end lifecycle of EV Charging Hardware, installation, and after-sale maintenance services. As a Category Manager, you will design and implement nimble purchasing models that capitalize on Ford's scale and leverage. You will be responsible for the total value equation,balancing short-term business needs with long-term sustainable solutions,while collaborating cross-functionally with Engineering, Finance, Logistics, and Legal to deliver best-in-class reliability and customer satisfaction.
Key responsibilities include:
- Lead the end-to-end sourcing process (RFI, RFQ, negotiations, and sourcing recommendations) for EV hardware and accessories for commercial and internal customers.
- Negotiate Master Service Agreements (MSAs), Statements of Work (SOWs), and Service-Level Agreements (SLAs), ensuring favorable terms regarding IP rights, liability, warranty, and RMAs.
- Establish and monitor KPI metrics and lead Supplier Business Unit Reviews (BURs) to drive continuous improvement, quality, and high customer satisfaction.
- Serve as the primary interface between Indirect/Production Purchasing, Ford charging, PD, Finance, and Legal to align on automotive standards and business goals.
- Support North American inventory tracking, oversee supply chain risk assessments, and coordinate with logistics and sales to ensure timely delivery and program launches.
- Design and implement agile purchasing frameworks and cost models that support fast decision-making and speed-to-market.
- Ensure all activities adhere to corporate purchasing policies, including financial assessments, bailment approvals, and the proper execution of purchase orders.
Requirements include:
- Bachelor's degree in business, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field.
- 3+ years of experience in Purchasing, Supply Chain, or Procurement, preferably within a manufacturing or automotive environment.
- Proven experience in contract development, including SOWs, SLAs, and performance-based metrics.
- Strong analytical skills with proficiency in cost analysis, business case development, and data-driven decision making.
- Demonstrated negotiation skills, with the ability to leverage data to achieve favorable outcomes.
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to lead and influence cross-functional teams.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
Preferred qualifications include experience in Production Purchasing, particularly with electrical components or charging infrastructure, knowledge or experience with Aurora procurement systems, and demonstrated ability to build strong relationships and foster collaboration across diverse teams.