Senior Manager, Global Category – Indirect Materials

Methode Electronics is a global leader in innovative electronic solutions, serving industries such as automotive, industrial, aerospace, and consumer electronics. With a strong commitment to engineering excellence, quality, and continuous innovation, Methode delivers cutting‑edge technologies that power today’s most advanced products. Our collaborative culture and focus on professional growth empower employees to make a meaningful impact while building rewarding careers. Joining Methode means being part of a forward-thinking team that values integrity, creativity, and driving the future of technology.

This role is responsible for developing and executing a global sourcing strategy across key indirect spend categories including MRO, facilities, professional services, IT, Engineering software and PLM platforms, supply chain compliance systems, Machineries and Equipment (M&E). As a key strategic leader, this role shapes the direction of indirect procurement by driving value creation, supplier performance, cost optimization, and risk mitigation across a multi‑regional footprint.

The position plays a critical leadership role in aligning procurement strategy with business needs and enabling operational efficiency and innovation.

• Lead the development and implementation of global category strategies for indirect spend areas.
• Identify sourcing opportunities, develop supplier segmentation, and implement cost‑saving initiatives.
• Ensure alignment of sourcing strategies with business goals, budgets, and stakeholder priorities.
• Establish category‑specific KPIs to measure and drive performance.

• Build and manage strategic supplier relationships, ensuring high levels of service, innovation, and compliance.
• Lead complex contract negotiations, ensuring optimal commercial and legal terms.
• Implement supplier governance models and continuous improvement plans.

• Partner with stakeholders across IT, Engineering, Facilities, Operations, Finance, and Legal to understand requirements and drive value.
• Support key initiatives including CAPEX planning, compliance systems implementation, and digital transformation projects.
• Collaborate with cross functional teams on Software Asset Management (SAM) process and renewal strategies to ensure cost‑effective licensing and usage.
• Ensure stakeholder engagement and satisfaction through effective communication, planning, and service delivery.

• Lead and develop a high‑performing team of category managers and sourcing professionals.
• Ensure process standardization, procurement policy compliance, and risk management across categories.
• Monitor market trends, technology advancements, and supply risks to inform sourcing decisions.

• Drive total cost of ownership (TCO) reductions and value beyond savings.
• Track and report cost savings, value delivery, and efficiency improvements.
• Champion procurement analytics to support decision‑making and opportunity identification.

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Business, Engineering, or a related field; MBA or advanced degree preferred.
• 8+ years of experience in procurement or strategic sourcing, with at least 5 years in a global leadership role focused on indirect categories.
• Deep expertise across key indirect spend areas, including MRO, facilities, services, IT licensing models, cloud‑hosted solutions, software lifecycle management, PLM platforms, M&E and supply chain systems.
• Proven ability to develop and lead global category strategies that drive cost savings, supplier performance, innovation, and risk mitigation.
• Strong experience managing strategic supplier relationships and leading complex negotiations in a global environment.
• Demonstrated ability to influence cross‑functional stakeholders and align procurement initiatives with broader business goals.
• Proficient in sourcing tools and ERP systems with strong analytical and financial acumen.
• Strong leadership, communication, and change management skills in a matrixed, multinational organization.

The work…