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Harley-Davidson Motor Company · 11 hours ago

Senior Category Manager

Wauwatosa, WI

Full-time

Onsite

Senior Level

$82K/yr - $126K/yr

5+ years exp

Harley-Davidson Motor Company is seeking a highly skilled Senior Category Manager to lead global sourcing strategies and elevate supplier performance across their global supply base. This role involves owning end-to-end category strategy, driving global negotiations, and collaborating with various departments to support the company's long-term business objectives.

AutomotiveBusiness DevelopmentIndustrialManufacturingTransportation

No H1B

Responsibilities

Develop and execute global category strategies for assigned categories (initial focus may include wire harnesses)

Create and deliver annual global value plans that drive cost savings, improve quality, and strengthen supplier capabilities

Lead high-stakes negotiations and manage strategic supplier relationships, including global Master Supply Agreements

Identify and mitigate global supply risks through proactive, data-driven strategies to ensure supply continuity

Act as the subject matter expert (SME) for your category—offering insights, market intelligence, and strategic recommendations

Lead cross-functional teams (without direct reporting responsibility) to execute supplier transitions with strong business cases and risk planning

Ensure compliance with Harley-Davidson’s global supply management policies and report out on category performance

Facilitate global Supplier Business Reviews to assess performance, drive accountability, and build long-term partnerships

Communicate complex or sensitive information effectively to suppliers and internal leadership

Qualification

Category managementStrategic sourcingGlobal negotiationSupplier performanceSupply chain managementContinuous ImprovementManufacturing experienceCross-functional influenceMarket intelligenceRisk planningAutomotive experienceTechnical backgroundSupplier relationshipsCommunication skillsTeam leadership

Required

High School Diploma or Equivalent Required

5+ years of experience in category management, strategic sourcing, procurement, supply chain, or operations (global exposure strongly preferred)

Ability to navigate complex challenges and influence cross-functional and cross-regional stakeholders

Broad expertise in procurement, supply chain management, supplier quality, S&OP, negotiation, and/or product development

Experience in manufacturing environments with strong collaboration across functions

Demonstrated ability to guide, influence, or lead teams without formal people leadership responsibilities

Preferred

Bachelor's degree (advanced or technical degree in supply chain, engineering, or business is a plus)

Relevant certifications (CPIM, CSCP, CPSM)

Technical background in electronics sourcing or engineered components

Automotive or powersports industry experience

5+ years of global negotiation experience

Experience improving supplier performance across multiple global manufacturing sites

Continuous Improvement (CI) knowledge or hands-on experience

Benefits

Annual bonus programs

Health insurance benefits

A 401k program

Onsite fitness centers

Employee stores

Employee discounts on products and accessories

Company

Harley-Davidson Motor Company

Glassdoor3.6

In 1903, out of a small shed in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, four young men lit a cultural wildfire that would grow and spread across geographies and generations.

Founded in 1903

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA

5001-10000 employees