BASEL OFFICE - Purchasing Category Manager - Food

Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused voyages on oceans, rivers and lakes around the world. Designed for experienced travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences for The Thinking Person®.

Viking has more than 250 awards to its name, including being rated #1 for Rivers, #1 for Oceans and #1 for Expeditions by Condé Nast Traveler and voted at the top of its categories by Travel + Leisure.

No other cruise line has ever received these same honors by both publications at the same time.

Please note that we can only accept applicants who are eligible to work in Switzerland or in possession of a valid work permit.

ROLE DESCRIPTION

• As a key member of the purchasing and procurement department, the Food Category Manager assists the Senior Purchasing Manager in sourcing all Food items for Viking’s fleet
• The Food Category Manager will be responsible for the end-to-end sourcing and contracting of all food items except proteins in Europe for supplying worldwide
• The Category Manager will work closely with Viking’s culinary team, Onboard Operations team, as well as the ships staff to ensure that all products needed for the onboard hotel operations are delivered on time and at the lowest total cost of ownership

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• You will calculate and forecast spend and savings by category
• You will independently develops category strategies and create alignment with key stakeholders
• You will maintain and update standard items and specification in our system
• You will prepare tender and RFQ documents
• You will run tenders and RFQs independently
• You will support and participate in negotiations
• You will select vendors, calculate TCO and close contracts
• You will solve issues with the suppliers (service level issues, quality discrepancies, invoices, etc.)
• You will participate in industry events and exhibitions
• You will maintain Viking Purchasing System (e.g. items, prices, logistics)
• You will conduct ad-hoc analytics related to purchasing and supply chain
• You will support the Senior Purchasing Manager in preparing status update for the Senior Management team
• You will forecast levels of demand for services and products to meet the business’ needs
• You will conduct research to ensure best products and suppliers in terms of best value, delivery schedules and quality
• You will identify new potential suppliers, agree and negotiate on supply terms where appropriate
• You will visit existing suppliers and establishing and maintaining prosperous strategic business relationships with key suppliers

KEY QUALIFICATIONS

• Good background in purchasing and supply chain management
• Strong knowledge of best practices in purchasing and procurement
• Minimum 2 years previous experience in a purchasing role
• Ability of handling complex analysis well and with limited support and supervision
• High competency level in use of MS Office, in particular Excel and PowerPoint
• Fluent in Business English
• Eager to build a career in Procurement and improve the product on a constant basis
• Results orientated, self-starter and can-do mindset
• Good planning and priority setting skills
• Analytical approach with attention to details

EDUCATION

You have a Bachelor’s in Business, Finance or Supply Management

NICE TO HAVE QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience from the Supply Management, Food, or Hospitality industry not required but a plus
• Any additional language is a plus
• Like to work in team in a dynamic environment

CULTURE & BENEFITS

Fast-growing and dynamic environment, a modern workspace, flexible working hours

HOW TO APPLY