Category Manager

WinGD seeks a Senior Category Manager in Winterthur to lead global sourcing strategies and drive sustainability in the shipping industry within an agile, non-hierarchical team.

This position focuses on directing global category management efforts to influence the environmental footprint of maritime transport. The role functions within a flexible, non-hierarchical framework that actively encourages employee contributions and innovative ideas.

Responsibilities

• Manage all global activities for designated product categories.
• Create and execute sourcing strategies that align with business goals and market shifts.
• Oversee international sourcing efforts, including market analysis, supplier selection, RFX execution, and contract negotiations.
• Foster robust supplier partnerships, perform routine performance assessments, and promote ongoing enhancements.
• Collaborate with the Supplier Development group to assess and grow suppliers, ensuring a dependable and competitive supply chain.
• Partner with internal departments such as Business Units, R&D, Supply Chain, Finance, and Service to gather requirements and plan procurement effectively.
• Assist with project-based procurement tasks, including demand forecasting and make-or-buy analysis.
• Implement cost reduction programs using a Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) methodology while preserving quality and reliability.
• Track market developments, identify opportunities and risks, adjust procurement tactics, and apply risk mitigation measures.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Technical background with certifications in CIPS, APICS, or Lean Six Sigma.
• At least five years of experience in strategic, international procurement or category management within an industrial setting.
• Demonstrated success in formulating and executing procurement strategies, optimizing supply chain processes, and managing large-scale purchasing operations.
• Proficiency in ERP and procurement systems, particularly SAP S/4Hana, along with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Solid methodological understanding of category management principles.
• Exceptional negotiation abilities and intercultural competence, with a history of building strong supplier relationships to achieve cost efficiencies and supply chain reliability.
• Highly analytical approach with strong problem-solving skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills, capable of engaging effectively with cross-functional, multinational teams and external stakeholders.
• Willingness and ability to travel as required.

What the company offers

• Contribute to shaping the sustainability and environmental impact of the shipping industry.
• Work in a dynamic environment that combines a long history of technology expertise with industry-leading innovation across a global network.
• Be part of an award-winning and extraordinary products team.
• Join multi-cultural and interdisciplinary teams that offer diverse perspectives and collaborative thinking.
• Experience dynamic and interactive working conditions within a non-hierarchical, agile structure where input and ideas are welcome.
• Access in-house technology training and professional development opportunities.

About the company

WinGD is a leading developer of two-stroke engines for merchant shipping, headquartered in Winterthur, Switzerland, with a legacy dating back to 1893. The company values drive, innovation, and collaboration among a diverse employee population of over 420 people worldwide representing over 25 different nationalities.

• WinGD is a leading developer of two-stroke engines for merchant shipping, headquartered in Winterthur, Switzerland, with a legacy dating back to 1893.
• The company values drive, innovation, and collaboration among a diverse employee population of over 420 people worldwide representing over 25 different nationalities.