Category Manager; I.T

Important Company Update - Please Read Before Applying. On January 22, 2025, Aptiv announced its decision to separate its EDS division to form two separate independent companies.

This role is within the EDS segment, and you will be joining that segment as it becomes its own entity, with a rich heritage and proven track record as a global leader in low and high voltage power and signal distribution systems. Our solutions are central to enabling the next generation of electrified, automated, and connected vehicles, and we are committed to innovation, sustainability, and engineering excellence.

We are looking for talented individuals who are excited by the opportunity to help shape the future of EDS and delivering industry-leading solutions to the world's top automotive manufacturers.

Why join Aptiv? You'll have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge applications, develop breakthrough technologies, and deliver innovative solutions to some of the world's leading automotive brands. See your work come to life on the road - helping make mobility safer, greener, and more connected.

Aptiv is currently searching for an IT Category Manager to be part of their Indirect IT Category team. This person will work closely with cross functional teams and key stakeholders to drive effective sourcing strategy to deliver the best outcome for Aptiv. Key responsibilities will include leading the effective execution of the category management strategies, conducting commercial and contractual negotiations, stakeholder and supplier risk management.

Successful candidate will be required to have the necessary experience, category knowledge, skills and capabilities to deliver on strategic objectives.

• Develop and execute strategies and sourcing plans that foster the highest level of commitment to continuous improvement in category and service quality, cost, delivery, service, and technology
• Plans and directs activities within assigned categories to achieve the maximum measurable results
• Serves as the principal liaison representing Aptiv external towards suppliers on all commercial and business relationship content, including but not limited to quality, cost, delivery, service, contracts, risks and technology objectives
• Ensures supplier KPI's are in place as applicable and needed to audit supplier results, financial performance, and technical capabilities
• Ensures supplier commercial and operational processes and principles meet requirements in support of best cost, financial performance, and technical capabilities
• Leads, directs and manages any commercial negotiations involving the assigned categories and/or services
• Collects, and coordinates business and technical requirements from the stakeholder, and supporting functions for negotiations.
• Drives & innovates supplier's improvements and performance by identifying and implementing solutions to business problems, independently cross-functional and globally as appropriate within assigned categories
• Interfaces with functional and business stakeholders as required
• Execution of stated goals and objectives toward the defined annual operating and strategic plans
• Critical to acquire a full understanding of various marketplace conditions and environments as well as the regional and global implications
• Represents Aptiv supplier interests within Aptiv towards all functions, levels, and stakeholders regionally and globally as applicable and required within the assigned categories

• 8+ years of experience in strategic procurement and supply chain management in a technology-related industry
• Prior experience in a similar global role sourcing IT Software, Hardware, Network, Telco and/or Cloud services (5+ years)
• Strategic sourcing, financial and business opportunity analysis, comfort with legal frameworks, and contract negotiation skills
• Knowledge of the best sourcing practices and the methodologies used for this category of IT supplier /partner
• Good understanding of commercial agreements. Experience drafting and negotiating contracts (reviewing redlines, identifying and offering solutions to potential issues)
• Open-minded self-starter who can provide insightful feedback, strategies, and thoughts to their stakeholders and suppliers
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced matrixed environment
• Strong analytical skills required - should cost and TCO modeling
• Strong relationship and interpersonal skills to be applied in working with partners across the entire contract life cycle
• Excellent written and verbal communication and problem solving skills
• Must be legally able to work in the U.S. without any type of visa sponsorship/transfer at any time (now or in the future).
• Must be a local resident of the Metro Detroit area with ability to work on campus.

• Masters Degree in Business or equivalent
• Supply Chain qualifications (e.g. CIPS, IIPMM)
• Experience using Ariba would be an advantage

• You can grow at Aptiv. Aptiv provides an inclusive work environment where all…