Strategic Buyer Manufacturing

In this role you will play a key role in shaping and executing the category strategy within an international, highly technical industrial environment. Working closely with Procurement, R&D, Engineering, and Operations, you will help secure a competitive, innovative, and reliable supply base for the business.

What will you do

• Partner with Category Managers and Project Procurement Managers to implement the category strategy and align it with business needs.
• Adapt and manage catalogues and framework agreements at divisional/regional level, ensuring compliance with internal guidelines.
• Lead complex negotiations, manage RFQs, define awarding decisions, and oversee supplier follow-up.
• Select and develop suppliers in line with strategy, identifying new market opportunities and strengthening the supplier base.
• Address and resolve supplier-related issues, including quality, delivery, and service performance.
• Support the scouting of new technologies and materials in collaboration with Technical Offices, R&D, and Production.
• Monitor supplier performance and communicate results, driving continuous improvement.
• Promote digitalization, automation, and enhancement of procurement tools and processes.
• Ensure cost competitiveness, availability, innovation, and quality within the sourcing plan.
• Guarantee full compliance with procurement processes, policies, and statutory requirements.
• Deliver on KPIs agreed with the line manager.

What you bring

• Bachelor’s degree (technical or economic fields preferred).
• Procurement or Supply Chain certification (a plus).
• 5+ years of experience in procurement processes.
• Strong background in international contract management.
• Deep knowledge of design-to-cost projects related to welded structures, CNC machining, and carpentry.
• Experience working in complex, multinational organizations.
• Proven market analysis and supplier scouting capabilities.
• Strong networking and relationship-building skills.
• Excellent analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and strategic mindset.
• High sense of ownership and accountability.
• Expertise in large and complex negotiations.
• Strong commercial acumen, engagement skills, and results orientation.
• Availability for short business trips.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings.

What You’ll Find Here

• A strategic role with direct impact on business performance.
• Exposure to international projects and advanced industrial technologies.
• A dynamic environment focused on innovation and continuous improvement.
• Opportunities for professional growth within a complex and stimulating organization.

About GEA

GEA Group, founded in Germany in 1881, is a global leader in engineering solutions, serving industries such as food and beverage, pharma, dairy, and more. With over 18,000 employees worldwide and a strong U.S. presence since 1929, GEA combines the...

We are looking for an experienced Project Procurement Manager to lead procurement activities across complex international projects. You will act as the main procurement contact for project teams and ensure alignment on cost, quality, timelines, risks, and supplier strategies.

We are looking for an experienced Project Procurement Manager to lead procurement activities across complex international projects. You will act as the main procurement contact for project teams and ensure alignment on cost, quality, timelines, risks, and supplier strategies.