Senior Electronic Category Manager

Develops all aspects of Graco’s global sourcing strategy.  Ensures annual improvement in the total cost, quality, and service for the assigned commodities.  Fully understands the business units and manufacturing requirements, and implements a procurement process to meet specific needs.  Effectively and creatively uses supplier resources early in the design process and to bring new technologies to Graco. 

What You Will Do at Graco 

• Develop and implement sourcing strategies for Electronic Contract Manufacturers (ECMs/EMS) and electronic components (PCBA, box build, test services; semiconductors, passives, connectors) to support corporate and divisional objectives.   

• Assess and develop an ECM/EMS and electronics supplier base (including contract terms, capacity, NPI capability, test, and quality systems) to meet current and future requirements; establish preferred supplier strategies, dual-sourcing, and risk mitigation plans.   

• Create and maintain mutually beneficial partnerships with suppliers to foster feedback and continuous improvement.  

• Negotiate and manage most complex contracts and agreements for assigned commodities in accordance with Graco's objectives, policies and procedures.  

• Lead the global supplier selection process within a cross-functional team.  

• Manage global suppliers, costs, quality, and delivery performance.  

• Understand, track, and forecast the key cost drivers and global market factors for assigned commodities.  

• Implement global sourcing strategies to control Graco’s purchased material costs and to assure an adequate source of supply.  

• Support global new product development from the concept stage through successful product launch.  

• Support the Planners and other manufacturing partners on tactical needs, as .  

• Drive continuous improvement in all aspects of the global procurement process.  

• Effectively represent the department on cross-functional teams within Graco or other companies.  

• Project management experience leading cross-functional electronics initiatives (NPI readiness, transfers, cost-down programs, dual-sourcing, and obsolescence-driven redesigns).   

• Perform other duties as assigned. 

What You Will Bring to Graco 

• BA/BS degree in Business, Engineering, Materials Management or equivalent. 

• C.P.M./C.P.I.M. certification  

• 10+ years of materials or manufacturing experience.  

• 8+ years of progressively responsible purchasing experience.  

• Expert-knowledge of products, including key cost drivers, commodity market conditions, and pricing dynamics.

• Broad technical expertise extending beyond assigned Graco commodities.  

• Proven ability to manage highly complex negotiations and contracts, including private‑label agreements and international procurement.  

• Advanced knowledge of contract law and demonstrated ability to draft, negotiate, and execute advanced contracts, agreements, and business plans.  

• Strong experience resolving complex sourcing challenges requiring cross‑functional collaboration.  

• Ability to perform detailed corporate category studies and conduct global market research.  

• Recognized Worldwide Category expert supporting global product development teams.  

• Ability to read, interpret, and apply complex engineering blueprints and specifications.  

• Proven track record of meeting and exceeding individual and departmental goals.  

• Demonstrated project management experience on large, multi‑stakeholder initiatives.  

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all organizational levels. 

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate effectively across functions and geographies.  

• Proficiency with PC and business software applications, including Word, Excel, Access, and database management tools. 

Accelerators  

• MBA desired 

• Demonstrated ability to develop leadership capability in others.   

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