Global Category Manager

To become a Global Category Manager at OESL, you typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field and significant experience in purchasing, especially within the automotive sector. Effective risk management, supplier negotiation, and good communication skills in English and German are also essential for the role, allowing you to handle complex supplier relationships and market strategies effectively.

As a Global Category Manager at OESL, your primary responsibilities will include developing and maintaining a robust portfolio strategy, managing supplier relations, and leading negotiations for global contracts. Additionally, you'll be responsible for identifying potential suppliers, conducting market research, and reporting on category performance, all while ensuring alignment with stakeholders within the business area.

The work environment for a Global Category Manager at OESL is designed to be flexible, blending both remote and in-office work. OESL recognizes the importance of work-life balance, offering a hybrid schedule to fit your lifestyle while allowing you to contribute effectively to the team and the company’s goals in the automotive industry.

OESL offers a range of benefits for Global Category Managers, including a 13th salary paid annually, private health insurance, meal tickets, and opportunities for professional development. You will also enjoy bonuses for referring new candidates, a system for rewarding improvement ideas, and additional vacation days as you progress within the company.

At OESL, experience in purchasing, particularly within the automotive industry, is highly valued. Candidates with a strong background in risk management, project management, and supplier relationship management will stand out. Being able to navigate international business dynamics and having practical negotiation skills will also serve you well in this role.

When answering this question, focus on specific examples where you've successfully negotiated contracts or pricing. Highlight your negotiation strategies, any challenges you faced, and how you built relationships with suppliers. This will demonstrate your ability to handle the complexities of supplier negotiation at OESL.

To develop a sourcing strategy, I first analyze market demands and supplier capabilities. I then align this strategy with the company's goals, identifying key suppliers who can meet those needs effectively. It's important to consider risk management and flexibility to adapt to market changes, which aligns with OESL's approach.

I utilize various analytical tools, including data analytics software and market research databases, to evaluate market trends and supplier performance. This helps inform my purchasing decisions and strategy development, ensuring I align with the needs of OESL and the industry’s demands.

In instances of supply chain disruptions, I prioritize communication with key stakeholders and suppliers to understand the root cause. I collaborate with my team to develop contingency plans, ensuring minimal impact on operations. My experience with risk management informs my decisions, which is crucial for a role at OESL.

Discuss specific projects where you've led initiatives to optimize purchasing strategies. Highlight your role in identifying areas for cost savings and improving supplier performance. This showcases your project management skills and strategic thinking, key traits for a Global Category Manager at OESL.

Explain a situation where you successfully established and maintained a relationship with a supplier. Focus on how you communicated effectively, navigated challenges, and fostered trust, highlighting how these skills will benefit your role as a Global Category Manager at OESL.

Describe your approach to risk assessment, detailing the methodologies you've used to evaluate supplier risks. Consider giving examples of how you identified potential risks and the strategies you implemented to mitigate them, which aligns with OESL's emphasis on risk management in procurement.

I stay updated with industry trends through continuous research, attending relevant conferences, and networking with professionals in the field. Subscribing to industry publications also keeps me informed, which is essential for staying competitive in my role as a Global Category Manager at OESL.

Discuss potential challenges, such as navigating a rapidly changing supplier market or managing international supplier negotiations. Highlight how your experience equips you to handle these challenges proactively, positioning you as a strong candidate for the Global Category Manager role at OESL.

I prioritize tasks by assessing urgency and impact, using project management tools to stay organized. Effective communication with my team ensures that we’re aligned on priorities. This approach will help me manage the multiple responsibilities expected in the Global Category Manager position at OESL.