Electronics Category Manager

Graco manufactures and markets premium equipment to move, measure, control, dispense and spray a wide variety of fluid and powder materials. What does that mean? Well, we pump peanut butter into your jar, and the oil in your car. We glue the soles of your shoes, the glass in your windows and the screen on your phone. We spray the finish on your vehicle, coatings on your pills, the paint on your house and texture on your walls. Graco is part of your daily life.

The Electronics Category Manager is responsible for developing and executing global sourcing strategies for electronic commodities, including ECM/EMS partners, PCB assemblies, box build, test services, and electronic components. This position leads supplier selection, contract negotiations, cost management, quality and delivery performance improvement, and risk mitigation to support Graco’s business objectives. The role requires electronics industry knowledge, strong cross-functional leadership, and the ability to manage complex supplier relationships while supporting new product development, continuous improvement, and long-term supply assurance.

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 required.  

• 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 required 

• 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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Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This role is not eligible for immigration sponsorship now or in the future (e.g., H-1B, TN, F-1 OPT).

At Graco, you truly make a difference. Your unique talents contribute to our organizational growth and future. Not only do you make a difference, but Graco’s culture empowers employees to create their own career path. Whether you choose to advance within your current department or explore new opportunities in different divisions, you have the ability to build your future. Our managers are here to provide support and guidance as you continue to grow within your career.

Graco has excellent opportunities available to individuals who want to be part of a fast-moving, growing company that is committed to quality, innovation and solving fluid handling problems for our customers. Graco is proud to be named a Best Place to Work by Fortune Magazine in 2016, 2018, 2019, 2021 & 2022. Graco offers attractive compensation, benefits and career development opportunities. Graco’s comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, stock purchase plan, 401(k), tuition reimbursement and more.

Our company uses E-Verify to confirm the employment and eligibility of all newly hired employees. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify.

The base pay range for this position is listed below, exclusive of fringe benefits or other compensation.  If you are hired, your final base hourly rate will be determined based on factors such as geographic location, skills, competencies, education, and/or experience.  In addition to those factors, we will also consider internal equity of our current employees.  Please keep in mind that the range provided is the full base salary range for the role.  Hiring at or near the maximum of the range would not be typical to allow for future and continued salary growth.