Job Description

Auto req ID: 39594 
Title: Senior Category Manager 
Job Function: Materials and Procurement 
Location: PDC 
Company: Harley-Davidson Motor Company 
Full or Part-Time: Full Time 
Shift: SHIFT1 

At Harley-Davidson, we are building more than machines. It’s our passion and commitment to continue the evolution of this storied brand, and heighten the desirability of the Harley-Davidson experience. To keep building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution, and emotion we need the best and brightest talent. We stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Are you ready to join us?

The Harley-Davidson Motor Company Product Development Center (PDC) located in Wauwatosa, WI is home to the mantra – You dream it. We build it. Join our team as a Senior Category Manager.

Job Summary

Harley-Davidson is seeking a highly skilled Senior Category Manager to lead global sourcing strategies and elevate supplier performance across our global supply base. This is a high-impact individual contributor role—ideal for someone who wants strategic ownership, cross-functional influence, and visibility across the organization without managing direct reports.

In this role, you will own end-to-end category strategy, drive global negotiations, and collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Finance, and Program Management to support Harley-Davidson’s long-term business objectives.

Job Responsibilities

• Develop and execute global category strategies for assigned categories (initial focus may include wire harnesses).
• Create and deliver annual global value plans that drive cost savings, improve quality, and strengthen supplier capabilities.
• Lead high-stakes negotiations and manage strategic supplier relationships, including global Master Supply Agreements.
• Identify and mitigate global supply risks through proactive, data-driven strategies to ensure supply continuity.
• Act as the subject matter expert (SME) for your category—offering insights, market intelligence, and strategic recommendations.
• Lead cross-functional teams (without direct reporting responsibility) to execute supplier transitions with strong business cases and risk planning.
• Ensure compliance with Harley-Davidson’s global supply management policies and report out on category performance.
• Facilitate global Supplier Business Reviews to assess performance, drive accountability, and build long-term partnerships.
• Communicate complex or sensitive information effectively to suppliers and internal leadership.

Education Requirements

High School Diploma or Equivalent Required

Education Specifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred
• Certifications in CPIM, CSCP, CPSM preferred 

Experience Requirements

Required

• 5+ years of experience in category management, strategic sourcing, procurement, supply chain, or operations (global exposure strongly preferred).
• Ability to navigate complex challenges and influence cross-functional and cross-regional stakeholders.
• Broad expertise in procurement, supply chain management, supplier quality, S&OP, negotiation, and/or product development.
• Experience in manufacturing environments with strong collaboration across functions.
• Demonstrated ability to guide, influence, or lead teams without formal people leadership responsibilities.

Preferred

• Bachelor’s degree (advanced or technical degree in supply chain, engineering, or business is a plus).
• Relevant certifications (CPIM, CSCP, CPSM).
• Technical background in electronics sourcing or engineered components.
• Automotive or powersports industry experience.
• 5+ years of global negotiation experience.
• Experience improving supplier performance across multiple global manufacturing sites.
• Continuous Improvement (CI) knowledge or hands-on experience.

Harley-Davidson is an equal opportunity employer that continues to build a culture of inclusion, belonging and equity through our commitment to attracting and retaining diverse talent from all backgrounds, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. We believe in fairness and providing a level playing field for all. We foster a culture that thrives on diverse perspectives and contributions to ignite the creativity and innovation to fuel our business and enhance the employee and customer experience.

The pay range shown represents the national average pay range for this role. Your pay may be more or less than the stated range and is dependent on your geographic location and level of experience.

We offer an inclusive compensation package for all full-time salaried employees including, but not limited to, annual bonus programs, health insurance benefits, a 401k program, onsite fitness centers and employee stores, employee discounts on products and accessories, and more. Learn more about Harley-Davidson here . 

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.

Direct Reports: No
Travel Required: 10 - 25%
Pay Range: $81,500-$125,600  
Visa Sponsorship: This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or visa transfer
Relocation: This position is eligible for domestic relocation assistance (within posted country)

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