Category Specialist

You will manage equipment sourcing projects across all Northvolt new factory programmes for a dedicated process equipment category.
You will maintain and further develop business relationships with our current and future supply base.
You will be responsible for scouting of new potential suppliers & technology as well as for category strategy and business awarding.
You will own and develop supplier relationships to improve performance and ensure Northvolt's objectives.
Responsibilities:
Develop aligned category strategy to support Northvolt's growth and competitiveness
Scout and evaluate potential suppliers and technologies to support the strategy
Assure cost competitiveness through deep understanding of cost drivers and should-costs for mass production equipment, focus on target costing and identifying cost improvement ideas with suppliers
Execute business awards, validate offers and proposals, perform commercial & contract negotiations
Drive supplier performance through data driven relationship management, and hold the master plan from supplier engagement with internal stakeholders

Profile: A curious life-long learner eager to make an impact for sustainable future who goes an extra mile and strives for excellence, never gives up and is eager to collaborate.
Skills & Requirements
Education/Experience
A degree in Engineering, MSc or MBA/Relevant University Degree
Working experience in operational management consulting, or relevant purchasing experience
Experience from difficult bi-lateral & multi-cultural business relationship
Skills in cost structure & should cost analysis
Very good team player, able to influence and convince other team members and project stakeholders

Specific Skills/Abilities
Excellent English written and oral skills
Exceptionally good negotiation and problem-solving skills
Can do attitude and an entrepreneurial spirit
Ability to work well with others in a team environment, as well as independently
Qualities that we cherish are flexibility, sense of quality, friendliness, motivation to take on new challenges, grit and a sense of humor
Willingness to travel for EU and overseas business trips, and for regular visits to Northvolt sites including Västeras and Skellefteå