Category Manager

Job Description

About the Team

The Category Management team is responsible for developing and managing a competitive aftermarket product portfolio that delivers value to distribution partners, end-users, and ZF Services. Working closely with Sales, Technical Services, Materials Management, Purchasing, Marketing, and Factory teams, the department drives product strategy across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Central America, and Caribbean markets. The team combines market intelligence, technical expertise, and commercial analysis to identify growth opportunities, optimize product performance, and support customer success. Through cross-functional collaboration, Category Management ensures strong market positioning, profitability, and long-term portfolio development.

What you can look forward to as Category Manager:

• Manage and develop an aftermarket product portfolio, ensuring strong market positioning, profitability, and customer value.
• Drive new product introductions based on customer feedback (VOC), vehicle research, and market analysis.
• Own product lifecycle management, including pricing strategies, inventory optimization, product supersessions, and discontinuation decisions.
• Provide product expertise and commercial support to Sales teams through presentations, market analysis, and customer-specific insights.
• Maintain data accuracy and integrity within SAP and resolve product-related system issues impacting customers.
• Analyze competitor offerings, maintain cross-reference data, and identify opportunities to strengthen ZF’s market position.
• Partner with Marketing to create compelling product messaging and effective go-to-market strategies.
• Develop business plans, line reviews, pricing strategies, and product roadmaps while collaborating with Purchasing on sourcing and cost optimization initiatives.

Your Profile as Category Manager :

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience within the automotive or commercial vehicle aftermarket industry is preferred.
• Strong technical aptitude with the ability to understand product functionality, failure modes, service life, and competitive advantages.
• Experience working with ERP systems, preferably SAP, and maintaining product master data.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to evaluate market trends, customer needs, pricing, and profitability.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across multiple functions and regions.
• Proven organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet challenging deadlines.
• Ability to operate strategically and tactically while driving business growth and customer satisfaction.

Why you should choose ZF in Tlaquepaque or Mexico City?

• Join a global technology leader shaping the future of mobility and the automotive aftermarket.
• Work within a collaborative and international environment with exposure to multiple markets across the Americas.
• Contribute to innovative product strategies that directly impact business growth and customer success.
• Partner with experienced professionals across Sales, Marketing, Technical Services, Purchasing, Operations, and Manufacturing.
• Enjoy opportunities for professional growth, skill development, and cross-functional career advancement.
• Be part of a company committed to integrity, compliance, and sustainable business practices.