Director, Global Category - Indirect Materials

Methode Electronics • Southfield, MI

3d

About The Position

Position Summary: This role is responsible for developing and executing a global sourcing strategy across key indirect spend categories including MRO, facilities, professional services, IT, Engineering software and PLM platforms, supply chain compliance systems, Machineries and Equipment (M&E) As a key strategic leader, this role shapes the direction of indirect procurement by driving value creation, supplier performance, cost optimization, and risk mitigation across a multi-regional footprint. The position plays a critical leadership role in aligning procurement strategy with business needs and enabling operational efficiency and innovation, Key Responsibilities Strategic Sourcing & Category Management Lead the development and implementation of global category strategies for indirect spend areas. Identify sourcing opportunities, develop supplier segmentation, and implement cost-saving initiatives. Ensure alignment of sourcing strategies with business goals, budgets, and stakeholder priorities. Establish category-specific KPIs to measure and drive performance. Supplier Management & Negotiation Build and manage strategic supplier relationships, ensuring high levels of service, innovation, and compliance. Lead complex contract negotiations, ensuring optimal commercial and legal terms. Implement supplier governance models and continuous improvement plans. Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with stakeholders across IT, Engineering, Facilities, Operations, Finance, and Legal to understand requirements and drive value. Support key initiatives including CAPEX planning, compliance systems implementation, and digital transformation projects. Collaborate with cross functional teams on Software Asset Management (SAM) process and renewal strategies to ensure cost-effective licensing and usage. Ensure stakeholder engagement and satisfaction through effective communication, planning, and service delivery. Operational Excellence Lead and develop a high-performing team of category managers and sourcing professionals. Ensure process standardization, procurement policy compliance, and risk management across categories. Monitor market trends, technology advancements, and supply risks to inform sourcing decisions. Cost Management & Value Delivery Drive total cost of ownership (TCO) reductions and value beyond savings. Track and report cost savings, value delivery, and efficiency improvements. Champion procurement analytics to support decision-making and opportunity identification.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Business, Engineering, or a related field; MBA or advanced degree preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in procurement or strategic sourcing, with at least 5 years in a global leadership role focused on indirect categories.
• Deep expertise across key indirect spend areas, including MRO, facilities, services, IT licensing models, cloud-hosted solutions, software lifecycle management, PLM platforms, M&E and supply chain systems.
• Proven ability to develop and lead global category strategies that drive cost savings, supplier performance, innovation, and risk mitigation.
• Strong experience managing strategic supplier relationships and leading complex negotiations in a global environment.
• Demonstrated ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders and align procurement initiatives with broader business goals.
• Proficient in sourcing tools and ERP systems with strong analytical and financial acumen.
• Strong leadership, communication, and change management skills in a matrixed, multinational organization.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of global category strategies for indirect spend areas.
• Identify sourcing opportunities, develop supplier segmentation, and implement cost-saving initiatives.
• Ensure alignment of sourcing strategies with business goals, budgets, and stakeholder priorities.
• Establish category-specific KPIs to measure and drive performance.
• Build and manage strategic supplier relationships, ensuring high levels of service, innovation, and compliance.
• Lead complex contract negotiations, ensuring optimal commercial and legal terms.
• Implement supplier governance models and continuous improvement plans.
• Partner with stakeholders across IT, Engineering, Facilities, Operations, Finance, and Legal to understand requirements and drive value.
• Support key initiatives including CAPEX planning, compliance systems implementation, and digital transformation projects.
• Collaborate with cross functional teams on Software Asset Management (SAM) process and renewal strategies to ensure cost-effective licensing and usage.
• Ensure stakeholder engagement and satisfaction through effective communication, planning, and service delivery.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team of category managers and sourcing professionals.
• Ensure process standardization, procurement policy compliance, and risk management across categories.
• Monitor market trends, technology advancements, and supply risks to inform sourcing decisions.
• Drive total cost of ownership (TCO) reductions and value beyond savings.
• Track and report cost savings, value delivery, and efficiency improvements.
• Champion procurement analytics to support decision-making and opportunity identification.

Benefits

• Methode offers US employees Medical, Dental, Vision, Hearing, Life & Disability insurance, a wellness program, and time off benefits.
• Voluntary benefit plans include Accident, Hospital Indemnity and Pet Insurance.
• Methode provides an Employee Assistance Program, and participation in the Company’s 401(k) plan which includes a company contribution.
• Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
• Hourly employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director