Category Manager – Automotive Semiconductors (m/f/d)

Category Manager – Automotive Semiconductors (m/f/d)

Hybrid - Garching, Bayern, Germany

Jul 16, 2026

A Career at HARMAN

As a technology leader that is rapidly on the move, HARMAN is filled with people who are focused on making life better. Innovation, inclusivity and teamwork are a part of our DNA. When you add that to the challenges we take on and solve together, you’ll discover that at HARMAN you can grow, make a difference and be proud of the work you do every day.

About the Role

As a Category Manager – Automotive Semiconductors, you will lead the global sourcing strategy for Electronics components - critical to our next-generation automotive electronics platforms. You will manage global supplier relationships, drive cost optimization, and align sourcing strategies with HARMAN’s product and technology roadmaps.

This position is ideal for professionals with deep expertise in automotive semiconductor procurement, strategic sourcing, and supplier development.

What You Will Do

• Develop and own the global sourcing strategy for semiconductor categories
• Lead supplier negotiations, contract management, and long-term capacity planning
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Manufacturing to align sourcing with product roadmaps
• Collaborate with R&D and product teams to influence early supplier engagement and design-to-cost strategies
• Manage RFx processes and supplier performance reviews (QBRs)
• Leverage digital procurement tools and analytics to enhance sourcing efficiency and transparency
• Support cross-category initiatives and act as a high-potential successor for category leadership roles
• Coach and guide other category managers as needed

What You Need to Be Successful

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or a related field
• 10+ years of experience in procurement, with a focus on electronics or semiconductor sourcing
• Proven success in automotive electronics purchasing, supplier negotiations and cost management
• Strong understanding of semiconductor supply chains, pricing models, and manufacturing cost structures
• Excellent stakeholder management and cross-functional collaboration skills

Bonus Points if You Have

• Experience in an automotive Tier 1 or OEM environment
• Familiarity with infotainment systems, ADAS, or vehicle connectivity platforms
• Knowledge of semiconductor lifecycle management and obsolescence planning

What Makes You Eligible

• Willingness to travel up to 30% (domestic and international)

What We Offer

• Flexible work environment with a culture encouraging work-life integration and collaboration in a global environment.
• Access to employee discounts on world-class Harman and Samsung products (JBL, HARMAN Kardon, AKG, etc.)
• Extensive training opportunities through our own HARMAN University
• Competitive wellness benefits
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Access to HARMAN Campus Fitness Center and Cafeteria
• An inclusive and diverse work environment that fosters and encourages professional and personal development

HARMAN is proud to be an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard torace, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

HARMAN International

HARMAN designs and manufactures consumer and professional audio products, automotive electronics and audio systems.

HARMAN International designs and engines connected solutions for automakers and consumers, featuring renowned audio brands and enterprise services that enhance the Internet of Things.

Computers and Electronics Manufacturing Manufacturing