Ferrule & Connector Category Sourcing Manager

Your Job

Molex's Optical Connectivity Group is seeking an experienced Ferrule & Connector Category Manager to lead global sourcing strategy, supplier management, and long-term category ownership for ferrules, connectors, and related optical termination components.

This role is essential to supporting Molex's expanding data center, hyperscale, and high-speed networking portfolio-ensuring that our supply base is competitive, innovative, and aligned with future technology roadmaps.

Location: Hybrid role based in Lisle IL, Hudson WI, or Eden Prairie MN.

Remote considered for individuals with 10+ years of precision fiber optic experience.

Our Team

Molex brings together innovation and technology to deliver electronic solutions to customers worldwide.

With a presence in more than 40 countries, Molex offers a full suite of solutions and services for many markets, including data communications, consumer electronics, industrial, automotive, commercial vehicle and medical.

What You Will Do



* Develop and maintain global category strategy and roadmap (cost, quality, supply continuity, capacity) for ferrules, connectors, alignment sleeves, and termination materials; update quarterly and present to stakeholders.


* Monitor market, materials, and technology trends (e.g., zirconia ceramics, advanced polymers) and deliver quarterly market intelligence reports with recommended sourcing actions and technology risk/opportunity assessments.


* Source, qualify, and maintain an approved global supplier base across Asia, North America, and Europe; complete supplier qualification (audit, capability assessment, sample validation) for new suppliers within predefined timelines.


* Lead RFQs and commercial negotiations (pricing, volume agreements, payment & incoterms, lead times), award and manage long-term contracts, and track achievement of agreed cost and service targets.


* Own supplier performance management: define KPIs (price, on-time delivery, PPM/defect rate, lead time), conduct quarterly supplier business reviews, and implement corrective actions to meet targets.


* Partner with Engineering, NPI/NPD, Operations, and Product Management to support design-for-cost, manufacturability, and qualification requirements; participate in NPI gates and deliver sourcing input within NPI timelines.


* Perform supply-chain risk assessments (single source, material shortages, geopolitical/logistics risks) and implement mitigation plans (dual sourcing, safety stock, alternative materials); maintain and test continuity plans annually.


* Own cost modeling and benchmarking for the category (total cost of ownership), deliver cost reduction initiatives and supporting analyses (savings tracked monthly/quarterly), and support annual budget planning.


* Ensure quality, compliance, and reliability: verify supplier adherence to connector/ferrule standards (e.g., Telcordia GR-326, IEC 61755, IEC 61754), manage supplier corrective actions, and main...