Senior Category Buyer

About the Role
We are looking for a proactive and driven Category Buyer to join our Europe Procurement team.

In this role, you will manage a defined supplier portfolio and ensure the best Quality, Cost, and Delivery (QCD) conditions for our European manufacturing sites.

As a key contributor to the Category Strategy, you will implement optimal terms and conditions with suppliers and secure sustainable performance across productivity, quality, delivery, sustainability, and contract coverage.

Key ResponsibilitiesCategory Execution & Supplier Management


* Ensure day-to-day operational relationships with assigned suppliers and maintain healthy, sustainable competition.


* Drive supplier performance across Quality, Cost, Delivery, and Sustainability metrics.


* Act as the first escalation point for supplier performance issues and crisis management.

RFQ & Negotiation


* Manage RFQs and lead supplier offer evaluations aligned with the global and regional category strategy.


* Conduct annual negotiations and secure the best commercial and contractual conditions.

Strategy Deployment & Productivity


* Lead concentration initiatives on targeted suppliers while mitigating business and supply risks.


* Identify and promote technical productivity levers (QVE, supplier changes) by influencing key stakeholders (Business Units, Productivity Leaders, suppliers).


* When acting as Schneider Supplier Leader (SSL), drive a global approach including global negotiations, should-cost analysis, and Lean initiatives with suppliers.

Industrial Collaboration & Data Management


* Collaborate closely with Category Managers and Global Procurement Services by providing accurate data and updates for purchasing tools and databases.


* Support contract implementation and legal compliance across your supplier panel.

Profile & QualificationsEducation & Experience


* Master's degree in Purchasing with 3+ years of experience, or Engineering degree with 5+ years in procurement.

Skills & Competencies


* Fluent written and spoken English.


* Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.


* Solid understanding of category strategy and procurement processes.


* Knowledge of legal terms, risk management, and contract implementation.


* Experience in cost & value analysis and total cost of ownership.


* Good understanding of quality, supply chain, and industrial processes.


* Project management capabilities and strong analytical mindset.


* Comfortable working with digital tools and procurement systems.


* Strong leadership presence and stakeholder management skills.


* Ability to communicate effectively with internal and external senior management.


* High cross-cultural awareness and adaptability.

Benefits



* Yearly bonus


* Medicover White Spring medical package


* Life & accident insurance


* Cafeteria allowance


* Home Office allowances


* Hybrid and flexible ...