Category Buyer

Location: Bangalore, India

Thales is a global technology leader trusted by governments, institutions, and enterprises to tackle their most demanding challenges. From quantum applications and artificial intelligence to cybersecurity and 6G innovation, our solutions empower critical decisions rooted in human intelligence. Operating at the forefront of aerospace and space, cybersecurity and digital identity, we’re driven by a mission to build a future we can all trust.

Present in India since 1953, Thales is headquartered in Noida and has other operational offices and sites spread across Delhi, Gurugram, Bengaluru and Mumbai, among others. Over 2200 employees are working with Thales and its joint ventures in India. Since the beginning, Thales has been playing an essential role in India’s growth story by sharing its technologies and expertise in Defence, Aerospace and Cyber & Digital sectors. Thales has two engineering competence centres in India - one in Noida focused on Cyber & Digital business, while the one in Bengaluru focuses on hardware, software and systems engineering capabilities for both the civil and defence sectors, serving global needs. The Group has also established an MRO (Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul) facility in Gurugram to provide comprehensive avionics maintenance and repair services to Indian airlines and support the growth of the local aviation industry.

Job Title: Category Manager (C43) – Printed Circuit Boards (PCB)

Location: Bengaluru

Department: Procurement

Reports To: Head of Procurement – Electronic Segment

Job Purpose:

The Category Manager (C43) for Printed Circuit Boards (PCB) is responsible for developing and executing the sourcing strategy, supplier management, and continuous improvement initiatives for PCB components and assemblies. This role ensures robust supplier performance, cost optimization, risk management, and alignment with technical and quality requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Category Management:

Develop and implement strategic sourcing plans for the PCB category, based on business requirements and market trends.

• Supplier Selection & Management:

Identify, assess, and onboard PCB suppliers. Manage ongoing supplier relationships to ensure performance in terms of quality, cost, delivery, and innovation.

• Negotiation & Contract Management:

Lead negotiations with suppliers, establish contracts, and manage pricing agreements. Ensure contracts meet technical, regulatory, and business needs.

• Cost Optimization:

Drive cost reduction initiatives through value engineering, market analysis, and competitive sourcing without compromising quality or compliance.

• Risk Management:

Monitor and mitigate risks associated with PCB supply (including geopolitical, technological, and financial risks). Ensure supply chain continuity and resilience.

• Stakeholder Collaboration:

Work closely with engineering, manufacturing, project teams, and quality assurance functions to define requirements, resolve issues, and support innovation.

• Market & Technology Intelligence:

Maintain awareness of industry developments in PCB technology, processes, and supply markets. Share insights and recommend actions based on market intelligence.

• Compliance & Quality Assurance:

Ensure all sourcing and supplier activities comply with organizational standards, relevant regulations, and industry certifications (such as IPC and ISO).

• Performance Monitoring & Reporting:

Analyze spend data and supplier performance metrics; provide regular reporting and actionable insights to management.

Required Qualifications & Experience:

• Diploma or bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electronics), or a related field;.
• 8 to 10 years’ experience in procurement, category management, or supply chain for electronic components (preferably PCBs) in a complex and international environment.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Understanding PCB manufacturing processes, quality standards, and relevant certifications.
• Proficiency in procurement systems, data analytics, and reporting tools.
• Experience collaborating with technical and cross-functional teams.
• Knowledge of contract law, compliance, and export control regulations.

Personal Attributes:

• Strategic, analytical, and results-oriented mindset.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills.
• High ethical standards and integrity.
• Adaptable, proactive, and able to manage multiple priorities.

At Thales, we’re committed to fostering a workplace where respect, trust, collaboration, and passion drive everything we do. Here, you’ll feel empowered to bring your best self, thrive in a supportive culture, and love the work you do. Join us, and be part of a team reimagining technology to create solutions that truly make a difference – for a safer, greener, and more inclusive world.