Technical Buyer (m/f/d)

Technical Buyer (m/f/d)

Summary: Technical Buyer Europe is responsible for the procurement of technical goods and services supporting chemical manufacturing operations, ensuring cost efficiency, quality, and supply continuity within a regulated environment. The role works in close cooperation with Engineering and Manufacturing teams to align procurement processes with operational requirements and to support the identification, qualification, and development of suppliers. It also collaborates closely with Commodity Managers for CAPEX and MRO to ensure strategic alignment and effective execution of sourcing activities.

Responsibilities

• Procurement Execution

  Execute sourcing and procurement of technical goods and services across European operations (MRO, CAPEX‑related items, engineering services). Manage RFQs/RFPs, bid evaluation, and supplier selection based on total cost of ownership, technical compliance, and regional requirements. Negotiate commercial terms within defined frameworks and authorities.

• Cross‑Functional Collaboration

  Work in close cooperation with Engineering and Manufacturing teams across Europe to translate technical requirements into effective procurement actions. Ensure alignment between plant needs and procurement execution to support operational performance and reliability. Interface with Quality, HSE, and Supply Chain to ensure compliance with company and regulatory standards.

• Commodity Alignment (CAPEX & MRO)

  Collaborate closely with Commodity Managers (CAPEX & MRO) to ensure alignment with global/category strategies, preferred suppliers, and sourcing initiatives. Support consistent execution of sourcing strategies across European sites. Provide regional market intelligence, supplier insights, and technical input to strengthen category strategies.

• Supplier Identification & Management

  Support the identification, qualification, and onboarding of suppliers across the European supplier base. Contribute to supplier performance monitoring (OTD, quality, service, HSE compliance). Participate in supplier reviews and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Operational Efficiency & Supply Assurance

  Ensure timely placement and follow‑up of purchase orders to meet production and project timelines across sites. Manage and resolve supply issues (delays, non‑conformities, claims) in coordination with stakeholders. Contribute to inventory optimization and mitigation of supply risks.

• Compliance & Risk Management

  Ensure procurement activities comply with company policies, European regulations, and HSE standards. Identify supply risks within the European market and support mitigation actions (dual sourcing, alternative suppliers, stock strategies).

• Cost & Performance Contribution

  Support delivery of cost savings and value improvement initiatives in line with procurement targets. Track and report procurement performance (savings, supplier KPIs, delivery reliability).

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Chemistry or a related field or equivalent qualification (e.g., completed technical or commercial apprenticeship with additional procurement or technical certification).
• Multi‑annual years of experience in technical procurement or purchasing, preferably within the chemical, manufacturing, or process industry.
• Strong understanding of technical sourcing (MRO, CAPEX, engineering services) and supplier evaluation.
• Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., SAP) and procurement tools.
• Fluency in English and German (mandatory); Italian is considered an asset.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and stakeholder management skills in a matrix environment.
• Experience managing multi‑site or regional procurement scope.
• Experience in the chemical or process industry with exposure to regulated environments.
• Proven involvement in CAPEX projects procurement (engineering, equipment sourcing, contractor management).
• Experience working within a matrix organization, collaborating with centralized Commodity Management.
• Knowledge of European industrial standards (e.g., DIN, ISO) and supplier qualification processes.
• Exposure to supplier development and performance improvement initiatives.
• Strong understanding of working capital levers (inventory optimization, payment terms, lead‑time reduction).
• Experience with e‑sourcing / digital procurement tools (e.g., SAP Ariba or similar).
• Italian language skills beyond German and English.

We are an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any characteristic protected by law.