Category Manager, Global Software & Licensing

A Career at HARMAN

As a technology leader that is rapidly on the move, HARMAN is filled with people who are focused on making life better. Innovation, inclusivity and teamwork are a part of our DNA. When you add that to the challenges we take on and solve together, you’ll discover that at HARMAN you can grow, make a difference and be proud of the work you do every day.

About the Role

The Global Licensing & Patent Category Manager will manage and make critical decisions on complex software and licensing software solutions. This is a rapidly growing and highly competitive category with a focus on product, cost structure, and market intelligence for advanced software and new emerging technologies such as AR, AI, ADAS, Telematics, V2X. This position will oversee the global software and licensing supply base including contracts, commercial/pricing, terms and conditions, innovation, and risk mitigation. The successful candidate will develop and execute category strategies through alignment with HARMAN business units, Product Development, Engineering, and Legal.

What You Will Do

• Responsible for key supplier relationships with software licenses, online services, patents, trademarks, and related engineering services across all divisions within the company

• Sourcing of embedded software licenses, online services, patents, trademarks, and related engineering services

• Negotiation of Frame Agreements together with our IP Legal Department and business stakeholders

• Manage Request for Quotation (RFQ) and supplier / licensor selection processes

• Own and drive Category Strategy in alignment with business stakeholders in Product Management, Engineering, and Quality

• Lead and close negotiations with suppliers / licensors for contract terms and conditions

• Build appropriate supplier relationships to successfully lead complex transactions

• Create make or buy analysis in consideration of alternative system designs/solutions

• Drive synergies in close collaboration with our parent company Samsung regarding licenses, online services, patents, trademarks, related engineering services, and other IPs throughout multiple departments inside Harman

• Close cooperation with the sales organization, product development, finance, and program management

• Support and drive technical discussions between suppliers / licensors and internal interfaces to ensure requirements are met by suppliers / licensors at the best possible commercial terms

• Continuous cost and quality improvements

• Preparation and presentation of reports and status updates for internal customers

• Search and identification of new and alternative suppliers / licensors

• Ownership of supplier/partner relationships

• Support license determination by Program Management with coordination support of Program Management Office

What You Need

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Legal, Computer Science, Engineering, or Supply Chain

• Minimum of 3+ years of previous work experience in software licensing and/or Engineering Services and/or dealing with patents

• Experienced with software licensing terms, automotive supply chains, and requirements

• Proven ability to translate complex technical requirements into compelling business recommendations and licensing terms

• Understanding of data analysis and forecasting methods

• Proficient in MS Office and/or web collaboration tools (Confluence/JIRA/Sharepoint)

• Experienced in the creation/negotiation of license contracts

What is Nice to Have

• Prior experience at an Automotive or Technology company

• Prior experience working with product management for a technology company and good knowledge of the software product development lifecycle

• Extensive contract negotiation experience, including as lead or primary negotiator

• Proven ability to balance risks and close deals

What Makes You Eligible

• Be willing to travel up to 15%

• Be willing to work in a Harman office located in Novi, MI (Hybrid)

• Successfully complete a background investigation and drug screen as a condition of employment

What We Offer

• Access to employee discounts on world-class Harman and Samsung products (JBL, HARMAN Kardon, AKG, etc.)
• Extensive training opportunities through our own HARMAN University
• Competitive wellness benefits
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Access to HARMAN Campus Fitness Center and Cafeteria