Category Buyer – 6403
Our client, a global market leader in the production and process support of active pharmaceutical ingredients, both in the chemical and biotechnology sectors, is looking for an experienced and strategic Category Buyer to manage the procurement of engineering services (design, construction, commissioning, and qualification services) to support a large investment pipeline globally, within their CapEx procurement team.
The ideal candidate will possess strong negotiation skills, a comprehensive understanding of the engineering services in the life sciences landscape, and the ability to cultivate partnerships with suppliers to optimize cost, quality, and service.
This is a one-year contract role to be working from the Basel office or remote with at least 1 day visit to the Visp production site in Switzerland.
Main Responsibilities:
* Contribute to the development and execution of 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, and centers of excellence, to understand sourcing needs and contribute to project success.
* Conduct market research and supplier analysis to identify potential suppliers, assess supplier capabilities, monitor supplier performance, and manage supplier relationships.
* Manage the entire life cycle of the request for information/quotation process for large packages in this category, including negotiation of framework and project-specific agreements to secure favorable terms and conditions while ensuring compliance and mitigating contract risks, in accordance with internal policies and industry standards. Ensure timely and efficient procurement processes, from requisition to contract, while maintaining quality 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 the Responsible Sourcing initiatives (Sustainability and Decarbonization) and follow up via corrective action plans to ensure suppliers' compliance with the company's supplier code of conduct and other commitments (e.g., climate, child labor, biodiversity, etc.).
Qualifications and Experience:
* Relevant working/residency permit or Swiss/EU citizenship required. At least a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
* Fluent in English with knowledge of German.
* CIPS or equivalent certification.
* 5-10 years of experience in the procurement of engineering services, category management, or supply chain within the life sciences.
* 5-10 years of experience in the engineering services market, including understanding regulatory requirements and standards in the life sciences sector.
* Agility in managing several priorities and the ability to reprioritize.
* Business acumen with thorough evaluation of business cases and total cost of ownership.
* Constructive and hands-on approach with both internal stakeholders and external partners.
* Ability to listen to customer needs and translate them into cost-effective execution.
* Perseverance in overcoming challenges while keeping the end goal in focus.
* Influencing and driving solutions with stakeholders and partners.
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