Category Manager - Direct

Category Manager - Direct (a)brOur client from the advanced engineering industry located in Basel is looking for a Category Manager (a) with strong technical understanding (focus direct categories). The role focuses on supplier strategy, commercial negotiations, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure cost efficiency, supply continuity, and operational excellence while supporting high-value technical programs.brCategory Manager - Direct (a)brOur client from the advanced engineering industry located in Basel is looking for a Category Manager (a) with strong technical understanding (focus direct categories). The role focuses on supplier strategy, commercial negotiations, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure cost efficiency, supply continuity, and operational excellence while supporting high-value technical programs. 100% onsite presence desired.brDescriptionbrThe Category Manager (a) will drive strategic sourcing and category management across a complex, project-based engineering environment.brOwn and Lead Category Strategy: Define and execute category strategies for assigned spend areas, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives and program needs. Build category structure and governance.brAct as Primary Procurement Lead: Serve as the key procurement and category lead within MRO, RMU, and Completions project teams, leveraging deep technical and commercial knowledge.brManage Supplier Life cycle: Oversee supplier selection, negotiation, contracting, and performance for critical goods and services. Prepare business cases including total cost of ownership and ROI analysis.brSteer Category Performance: Drive category performance to achieve cost, quality, and delivery objectives in line with business needs.brConduct Market and Supplier Analysis: Perform market analysis, supplier capability assessments, and cost bench-marking to inform data-driven sourcing decisions.brCollaborate with Engineering and Production: Influence specifications toward cost-effective and supply-secure solutions.brDrive Supplier Performance Improvements: Implement supplier performance improvement plans, addressing quality, delivery, and cost targets.brMonitor and Report Category KPIs: Develop, monitor, and report on KPIs such as cost savings, on-time delivery, supplier quality, and risk indicators.brAnticipate and Mitigate Supply Risks: Develop contingency sourcing plans and maintain strong supplier relationships.brProfilebrDegree in Supply Chain, Procurement, Business, Engineering, or a related field.br5+ years of progressive procurement/category management experience in a manufacturing or engineering industry.brStrong technical understanding as well as commercial acumen and negotiation skills, with proven contract management experience.brProficiency with ERP systems (e.g., SAP) and procurement/category management tools.brFluent in English; German or French is an asset.brAbility to thrive in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple high-value projects concurrently.brDirect exposure to MRO, RMU, or Completions projects in aviation or aerospace is highly valued.brFamiliarity with Lean Management.brAdditional certifications (CIPS, Lean Six Sigma, or other operational excellence certifications) are advantageous.brStrong influencing and stakeholder management skills across all levels of the organization.brJob OfferbrAn exciting and challenging job in a dynamic environment.brVarious opportunities for professional and personal development.brWorking with the latest technologies and tools.brEngaging, motivated, and supportive team environment. jid5f3947da jit0832a jiy26a