Head of Procurement (M/W)

For one of our clients, a global leader in biotechnology based between Geneva and Lausanne, we are looking for a Head of Procurement :

Our client has decided to create this new position to establish a strong purchasing function through the implementation of a comprehensive procurement strategy, moving away from a model focused solely on placing orders.

This role will emphasize the importance of transforming procurement into a strategic partner within the organization.

Your Responsibilities :

• Leading and mentoring a team of buyers for fostering a collaborative environment and ensuring alignment with the company’s goals.
• Shifting procurement team from a transactional role to a strategic role by optimizing processes and improving supplier relations, in order to make a significant impact on overall company efficiency.
• Improving procurement processes to lead better supplier performance and cost savings, ultimately contributing to the business’s success.
• Collaborate closely with key stakeholders to enhance quality, service delivery, reduce costs, and boost innovation from strategic suppliers.
• Cultivate, sustain, and oversee robust strategic relationships with suppliers.
• Formulate effective negotiation tactics for contract renewals or new supplier agreements, implementing these strategies through thorough negotiations.
• Identify and address risks related to supplier performance, regulatory compliance, and market changes to ensure uninterrupted business operations.
• Streamline and optimize our extensive network of indirect suppliers to enhance quality, increase efficiency, simplify the supply base, and lower costs.
• Develop and enforce comprehensive procurement processes to ensure compliance and readiness for audits.
• Integrate the procurement perspective into future R&D initiatives to ensure a strong influence in the selection, onboarding, and management of new suppliers.
• Engage closely with internal teams, including Manufacturing, R&D, Quality, and Finance, to ensure procurement decisions align with company goals and enhance operational efficiency.
• Partner with Manufacturing and Planning to ensure strategic suppliers are sufficiently investing in capacity to support anticipated growth.
• Enhance supply chain resilience through strategic inventory management and alternative sourcing strategies.
• Establish and execute top-tier governance for strategic suppliers, featuring clear communication frameworks, ongoing monitoring of key performance indicators, and shared goals.
• Oversee the procurement budget, ensuring cost-effective sourcing while maintaining quality and timely delivery.
• Create three-year category strategies for key spending areas and develop tactical plans to achieve those strategies.
• Play a vital role in shaping and implementing a three-year supply chain strategy.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the current procurement team, promoting a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Carry out any additional responsibilities as reasonably requested by the company from time to time.
• Perform all tasks in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), Good Documentation Practice (GDP), and relevant regulatory standards.

Your Profile :

• Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain Management or a related field. Proven experience in the medical device industry is highly desirable for this position.
• 10 years of experience in procurement, ideally within biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or a related industry.
• Experience in strategic procurement, robust procurement practices, supplier relationship management, and contract negotiation.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in managing and developing teams.
• Proven track record of successfully managing supplier relationships to deliver high-quality products, exceptional service, cost reductions, new innovations, and supply chain resilience.

ISO 13485 manufacturing experience is an asset.

• Strong negotiation and communication skills.
• Ability to analyze data and make informed decisions.
• Excellent stakeholder management and collaboration abilities across multiple functions to drive significant value.
• Strong influence management skills to effectively implement new and improve existing procurement business processes.
• Fluent in English, with a professional level in French (minimum B2).
• Willingness to travel 25% abroad.

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