Job Description:
We are seeking an experienced Category Buyer to manage the procurement of engineering services for large investment pipeline globally, within our Capital Expenditure (CapEx) procurement team. The ideal candidate will have strong negotiation skills, a comprehensive understanding of the engineering services landscape in life sciences, and the ability to cultivate partnerships with suppliers to optimize cost, quality, and service.
Key Responsibilities:
* Contribute to developing and executing category strategies for the procurement of engineering services, including design, construction, commissioning, and qualification services.
* Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including regional project lead buyers, contract and claim management, responsible sourcing, global engineering, centres of excellence, to understand sourcing needs and contribute to project successful execution.
* Conduct market research and supplier analysis to identify potential suppliers, assess supplier capabilities, monitor supplier performance, and manage supplier relationships.
* Manage the entire lifecycle of request for information/quotation processes for large packages in their category, including negotiation of framework and project-specific agreements to secure favorable terms and conditions, while ensuring compliance and mitigating contract risks, according to internal policies and industry standards.
* Monitor market trends, pricing, and supplier capacity dynamics to inform decision-making and minimize risk.
* Implement savings initiatives to achieve category-specific performance metrics. Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the procurement function, including process optimization and stakeholder engagement.
* Prepare reports and presentations for senior management, highlighting key metrics, supplier performance, and strategic insights.
* Onboard suppliers (existing and new) to Responsible Sourcing initiatives (Sustainability and Decarbonization) and follow up via corrective action plans to ensure suppliers' compliance with the supplier code of conduct and other commitments.
Requirements:
* Experience with CAPEX projects in the life science industry, specifically small molecules/bulk productions, food and beverage, laboratories, and infrastructures.
* 10+ years of procurement experience, particularly in managing engineering services on a project basis.
* Contract drafting and negotiation, preferably knowledge of common industry contract forms (IChemE, FIDIC, NEC4 ECC, JCT, etc.).
* Strategic supplier relationship management.
* Fluency in English and German languages.
Education:
* Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
* Preferrably an MBA or advanced degree in Engineering, Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
Language(s):
* English and German: Fluent.
Certifications:
* Preferred: CIPS or equivalent issuer.
Work Experience:
* Procurement of engineering services, category management, or supply chain within the life sciences industry: Advanced level - 5-10 years.
* Strong knowledge of the engineering services market, including regulatory requirements and industry standards in the life sciences sector: Advanced level - 5-10 years.
Competencies and Behaviors:
* Agility: Managing multiple priorities and reprioritizing as needed.
* Business Acumen: Thorough evaluation of business cases and total cost of ownership.
* Collaboration: Constructive and hands-on communication with both internal stakeholders and external partners.
* Customer Focus: Listening to customer needs and translating them into cost-effective execution.
* Driving Results: Perseverance and overcoming challenges, keeping end goals in focus.
* Leadership: Influencing and driving solutions with stakeholders and partners.