Since 1965, Stoneridge has designed and manufactured advanced, award-winning technologies including driveline and transmission actuation systems, vision systems, emissions control systems, safety systems, and security and monitoring systems for vehicle OEMs in the commercial vehicle, automotive, off-highway and agricultural vehicle markets. We’re focused on the areas of greatest market need – both today and tomorrow. Our core products and technologies are aligned with industry megatrends including safety and security, vehicle intelligence, fuel efficiency and emissions. Join the Stoneridge Team as we continue to build upon our strong history and reputation for quality products to deliver innovative products and systems that address a need, exceed our customers’ expectations, and motivate our team.
Objective of the position
The role will focus primarily on indirect procurement categories including Capital Expenditures (CAPEX), Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO), Packaging, Chemicals, and Service Contracts.
This position will support Stoneridge operations in Sweden, Estonia, the Netherlands, Mexico, and the United States. This role reports to the Director, Global Procurement.
The purpose of this role is to lead the cross-functional Core Category team and own the Category Strategy across Stoneridge, ensuring that the needs of all key stakeholders are aligned, represented, and effectively addressed, with focus on indirect procurement categories supporting manufacturing operations and engineering functions globally. The role is responsible for driving value through strategic supplier partnerships, leveraging global spending, and optimizing resource sharing across the organization. In addition, it focuses on strengthening commodity expertise, promoting best practices and driving continuous improvement across Stoneridge operations.
Characterization of activities
- Lead and develop the global cross-functional Category team, leveraging worldwide expertise and collaboration to drive category performance.
- Define, execute, and continuously improve the global Category Strategy in alignment with business objectives and stakeholder needs.
- Conduct market and technology analysis to identify trends, innovation opportunities, and competitive advantages for the business.
- Drive strategic supplier management, including supplier selection, assessments, risk management, and ownership of the Approved Supplier Database (ASD).
- Oversee commercial and contractual activities, including contract compliance, business award approvals, cost-saving initiatives, re-sourcing decisions, and cost driver analysis.
- Support category forecasting and planning activities together with procurement and operational teams to support informed business decisions and ensure long-term operational success.
Education, Experience and Knowledge
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
- Proven experience in indirect procurement and category management within a manufacturing environment supporting factory operations.
- Strong international or global procurement background, with the ability to work independently across regions and cultures. Experience with ERP systems, RFQ/RFP processes, spend analysis, and supplier negotiations.
- Demonstrated expertise in supplier negotiations, contract management, and strategic supplier relationships.
- Experience developing category strategies, driving cost-saving initiatives, and delivering measurable commercial results.
- Previous team leadership or cross-functional leadership experience, with the ability to motivate and align stakeholders in a global environment.
- Excellent communication, strong Business English skills, and stakeholder management capabilities; MBA education, automotive industry experience, and understanding of APQP/PPAP processes are considered an advantage. Strong stakeholder management skills and good English communication skills (written and verbal).
- Availability to travel internationally up to 25%.
What we Offer
- A global atmosphere with colleagues all over the globe.
- Possibilities to grow and develop in a fast-growing, ever-changing environment.
- Confido health insurance.
- Friendly team and fun events.
