Head of Procurement and Merchandising
Vorwerk International & Co. KmG belongs to the German family-owned company Vorwerk that has been operating in Wuppertal for 140 years. From the strategic head offices in Wollerau SZ, the Kobold and Thermomix divisions are managed.
We are an international company offering to our employees and sales advisors a wide variety of prospects. The successful direct sales concept, fascinating well-known brands as well as long-term perspectives form perfect conditions for dedicated people to take the opportunity to actively shape their future with us.
We are seeking a strategic and dynamic Head of Procurement and Merchandising to lead our efforts in optimizing supply chain operations, enhancing complementary product assortment and services strategies, and driving innovation. This role combines strategy, operational excellence, and creativity, with a focus on quality management, supplier partnerships, procurement management and global market insights.
More @ vorwerk.com
What are we looking for?
As the Head of Procurement and Merchandising, you will :
Procurement
- Develop and execute procurement strategies that align with the company's goals and values.
- Establish and manage relationships with global and local suppliers to ensure cost efficiency, quality, and reliability
- Travel extensively, including to Asia, the USA, and other regions, to identify the best suppliers, explore creative ideas, and foster partnerships
- Lead contract negotiations, supplier selection, and performance management processes.
- Stay informed on trends and innovations by attending and leveraging insights from major international exhibitions
Merchandising
Define and implement merchandising strategies to ensure optimal product mix and alignment with customer and advisors needsAnalyze market data, competition and consumer trends to drive assortment planning and pricing strategiesCollaborate with marketing global team and also with mktg of the countries, and design teams to curate and promote product ranges effectivelyOversee inventory management to maintain stock levels, reduce waste, and maximize profitabilityLead the adoption of digital tools and analytics to improve merchandising effectiveness.Quality ManagementOversee and ensure the quality of merchandise across all sourcing and production stages and / or manage third-party quality assurance providers, ensuring they meet company standardsEstablish robust quality control processes to guarantee compliance with specifications and certificationsMonitor supplier adherence to ethical and quality standards, addressing any issues proactivelySmart Stock Management and Digital TransformationImplement and oversee smart and digital stock management tools to enhance inventory visibility and controlDevelop processes to enable seamless stock exchange between countries within the group, leveraging inventory across markets to maximize profitability and minimize stockouts or overagesUse data-driven insights to optimize stock allocation and demand forecasting across the organizationLeadership and Collaboration
Build and lead a high-performing team of procurement and merchandising professionals.Foster an environment of innovation and creativity within the team, encouraging new ideas and solutionsSet KPIs and regularly review performance, ensuring continuous improvement in processes and outcomesReport directly to the VP international marketing & merchandising on procurement, merchandising, and inventory management performanceYour Profile
Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field (MBA preferred).Minimum 10 years of experience in procurement, merchandising, or a related role, with at least 5 years in a leadership positionProven expertise in supplier management, contract negotiations, and global sourcing.Strong knowledge of quality management systems and experience working with third-party quality assurance providersExperience implementing smart stock management and digital inventory solutions.Familiarity with major international exhibitions and access to industry networksA strategic thinker with a strong operational mindset and openness to innovation and team creativityDemonstrated success in identifying and implementing creative solutions and new ideas.Willingness and availability to travel internationally, including to Asia, the USA, and other regionsProficiency in English, any other language language skill is welcomeWhat we'll offer you
We are an international, by Kununu as top company 2024 awarded employer, offering various prospects to our employees and sales advisors. The successful direct sales concept, fascinating well-known brands, and long-term perspectives form perfect conditions for dedicated people to take the opportunity to shape their future with us actively. Our benefits include :
Very international and multicultural business environmentNew, modern, and ergonomic officesParking available and close public transportation connectionsFlexible working hoursHome office possibility (part time)Profitable pension fundIndividual benefits to choose from like, contribution to public transportation, parking, extra vacation days, company products, bike / e-bike, sports equipmentOwn fitness roomFree coffee and fruitsMoreover, since April 2021, Vorwerk International is a certified Fair-ON-Pay company as we want to underline our ongoing commitment to equal pay between women and men.
Read more about it here : https : / / fair-on-pay.com / certified-companies /
We are looking forward to getting to know you and will be happy to answer any further questions you may have. Please apply by using the green link (APPLY NOW), which directs you to the recruitment tool.
Your Contact
Vorwerk International Co. & KmG
Verenastrasse 39
8832 Wollerau
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