Category Manager – Västerås

Do you want to drive strategic procurement within fabrication and develop supplier strategies in a global industrial environment? We are looking for an experienced Category Manager with strong competence in negotiation, supplier development, and data-driven procurement.

We are looking for you who 👤 You have solid experience in procurement and category management in a technically complex and international environment. You are used to taking full responsibility for suppliers and categories, from analysis and strategy to negotiation, follow-up, and risk management. You work in a structured and business-oriented manner, use data as a basis for decisions, and have the ability to build long-term relationships with both suppliers and internal stakeholders.

Tasks 🛠️ In this role, you will, among other things: Responsible for supplier relationships within assigned categories.

Segment procurement volumes into relevant subcategories.

Develop and manage category strategies in line with business goals.

Work with categories such as machined components, castings, forgings, and welding.

Optimize Total Cost of Ownership while simultaneously ensuring delivery continuity.

Identify and manage risks in the supplier base.

Drive the category strategy through the development and use of a preferred supplier list.

Use Power BI and other analytical tools to identify cost drivers and analyze the impact on spend and cost forecasts.

Use data-driven insights in supplier dialogues and negotiations.

Conduct regular business reviews with strategic suppliers, internal teams, and management.

Prepare presentations and analyses related to supplier management, category plans, risk reduction, and gap analyses.

Follow market trends, relevant indices, best practice, and competing offers.

Identify opportunities for innovation, competitive advantages, and increased productivity.

Mandatory requirements ✅ Bachelor's degree or equivalent.

At least 5 years of experience in procurement, preferably within industry with complex engineering, procurement, and construction projects.

At least 3 years of experience in negotiation, including RFI, RFP, and RFQ processes as well as contract development.

Experience in competitive intelligence and project management within procurement.

Experience of supplier/vendor management, including issuing, executing, and administration of purchase orders.

Documented ability to develop and maintain long-term supplier relationships.

Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Project.

Experience of ERP or equivalent systems in a global environment.

Professional proficiency in English.

Merit requirements ⭐ Experience from complex international industry. Knowledge of machined components, castings, forgings, and/or welding. Experience of SAP and Ariba. Experience of Power BI. Knowledge of Swedish.

About the assignment 📍 Location: Västerås Scope: Full-time, 100 % Start: As soon as possible Application deadline: 30 September 2026 Extension: Possibility for extension exists Selection is ongoing and the role may be filled before the application deadline.

Sway Sourcing is an innovative recruitment partner specializing in matching the right talent with the right company – quickly and efficiently. Our main focus lies within Finance, Administration, HR, Marketing, and IT, but we also have the broad expertise and flexibility required to deliver tailored recruitment solutions across all industries. Despite being a relatively new player, we have already built trust with many of Sweden's largest companies and work both nationally and internationally. With bases in Sweden and Spain, we offer a unique combination of local expertise and global reach. Our strong network and deep industry insights make us a natural partner for companies that want to stay one step ahead in their recruitment.