Lead Global Category Manager

About the role

This position is responsible for developing and implementing category strategies that support Harley‑Davidson business objectives. It includes negotiation, contract management, and change management while measuring quality, cost, and delivery performance of all suppliers. The role also supports the broader Sourcing & Supplier Management organization by assessing and identifying the full scope of business across the Parts & Accessories Organization for multiple categories.

Responsibilities

• Works independently, requiring guidance only in the most complex situations.
• Leads others to solve complex problems in Supply Management using analytical thought, exercising judgment, and identifying innovative solutions.
• Coaches, mentors, and trains less‑tenured and/or less‑experienced colleagues.
• Communicates difficult concepts in Supply Management and negotiates with others to effectively influence as appropriate.
• Supports development of and deployment of strategic initiatives to facilitate cross‑business synergies across a rationalized set of global and regional preferred supplier partners.
• Negotiates and manages key strategic supplier contracts and relationships, including managing and executing master supply agreements.
• Reviews, approves, monitors, and reports compliance to category agreements and strategies based upon Harley‑Davidson SM policies.
• Presents new planning tools, methods, technical analysis, standards, and procurement opportunities with senior management that are aligned with SM/Harley‑Davidson strategic plans and cost‑reduction initiatives.
• Plans, prepares, and executes the annual value proposition for owned spend, and supports execution with cross‑functional business teams.
• Leads Supplier Business Reviews with assigned suppliers.
• Identifies potential financial/operational threats to the business and develops/deploys proactive supplier risk‑mitigation strategies to ensure supply continuity.
• Works collaboratively across different functions including Developmental Purchasing, Indirect Procurement, Supply Chain Operations, Logistics, Engineering, Manufacturing, Marketing, etc.
• Communicates difficult or sensitive information and builds relationships with suppliers, product development, and manufacturing.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent (required).
• Minimum of 8 years of related experience in category management, procurement, supply chain, and/or operations.
• Ability to apply best practices in Developmental Purchasing, Indirect Procurement, Supply Base, or Supply Chain and integrate them to drive results.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively within and/or lead a group or team, providing guidance to members.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience in strategic sourcing for service parts.
• Preferred: 3–5 years of professional negotiating experience in a global business environment.
• Preferred: 3–5 years of professional experience improving supplier performance across multiple manufacturing facilities.
• Preferred: APQP experience.
• Preferred: Experience with Power BI, SAP, and AS400.
• Preferred: Experience in Make‑vs‑Buy analysis.
• Preferred: Demonstrated continuous‑improvement experience – Lean or Six Sigma certifications.
• Preferred: Motorcycle riding experience and knowledge of Harley‑Davidson motorcycles and accessories.

Benefits

• Inclusive compensation package for full‑time salaried employees.
• Annual bonus programs.
• Health insurance benefits.
• 401(k) retirement program.
• On‑site fitness centers and employee stores.
• Employee discounts on Harley‑Davidson products and accessories.

Pay

Pay range: $100,100 – $155,300 (national average; actual pay may vary based on geographic location and experience).

Schedule & Additional Information

• Travel required: 10 % – 25 %.
• Shift: SHIFT1 (full‑time).
• Direct reports: None.
• Visa sponsorship: Not eligible.
• Relocation assistance: Domestic relocation assistance available.
• Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.