Global Category Manager / Global Purchasing manager – Direct Material

Job offer

For the BAUMANN Group, we are seeking a experienced Global Category Manager to lead the strategic management of direct material spend and ensure the global supply of all production sites. This pivotal role drives category excellence, optimizes global sourcing strategies, and fosters strong supplier relationships to secure the competitive advantage of the BAUMANN Group. We are looking for a strategic, dynamic natural leader who brings a hands-on mentality and excels in cross-functional collaboration. In this challenging leadership position, you will report directly to the Group CFO & CHRO.

Global Category Manager – Direct Material

(Group Functions)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead cross-functional teams in the development and execution of category strategies for direct material to support divisional plans
• Manage and optimize global spend within fiscal and multi-year plans to ensure cost-saving results
• Lead (indirect) the global category management organization for direct material and provide functional guidance to site buyers
• Track and monitor market conditions and proactively mitigate supply chain risks through robust contingency planning
• Collaborate with legal and functional business owners to negotiate regional and global supply agreements
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with key suppliers, manage the supplier base, and lead regular supplier reviews focused on Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)
• Create and lead global sourcing events, including supplier campaigns, e-Auctions, and complex negotiations
• Manage and monitor cost and quality targets, tracking savings achievements for the entire direct material spend
• Implement and monitor ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria and CO2-footprint reduction goals within the supply base
• Drive the adoption of digital procurement tools and data analytics to increase transparency and process efficiency
• Support strategic divisional projects and other group procurement initiatives with expert sourcing insights

YOUR PROFILE

• Technical or commercial degree combined with further education in procurement or business administration
• Proven track record in a global category management or strategic procurement role, ideally within a technical, automotive or medical environment
• Strong ability to lead functional teams and inspire stakeholders across departments and locations
• Advanced skills in identifying efficiency potential and analyzing market trends to translate data into actionable strategies
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills (minimum B2 in German and English) at all company levels
• Proficient in MS Office (especially Excel) and experience with SAP or other advanced e-Sourcing tools
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 and ISO 14001, and IATF 16949 or other ISO certifications
• Familiarity with other applications such as SalesForce, Qlik (or other Business Warehouse systems) is a plus

WHAT WE OFFER

• Detailed onboarding and support from a collegial and motivated team
• An interesting and diverse field of activity with excellent development opportunities
• Modern working conditions
• The opportunity to significantly contribute to the strategic success of an established global company
• A challenging position that encourages a sense of entrepreneurship in a dynamic environment

If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for procurement excellence and a desire to shape a global supply base, we encourage you to apply.