The Procurement Manager is responsible for leading the procurement function to ensure a reliable and cost-effective supply of materials supporting manufacturing operations. This role develops and executes procurement strategies, manages supplier performance, partners cross-functionally to support production requirements, and drives continuous improvement initiatives that optimize inventory, reduce costs, and strengthen supply chain performance.

Responsibilities:

• Identify and implement cost reduction initiatives while maintaining product quality and supply continuity.

• Collaborate with Planning, Operations, Engineering, and Manufacturing to ensure material availability supports production schedules.

• Analyze purchasing trends, supplier performance, and market conditions to identify opportunities for improvement and mitigate supply chain risks.

• Manage procurement activities to optimize inventory levels while minimizing excess and obsolete inventory.

• Develop contingency plans to reduce supplier risk and improve supply continuity.

• Support new product introductions through supplier sourcing, qualification, and procurement planning.

• Ensure procurement activities comply with company policies, contractual requirements, and ethical sourcing standards.

• Provide leadership and direction for the procurement function by coaching and developing the Buyer while building a high-performing procurement organization.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives that improve procurement processes, supplier performance, and operational efficiency.

• Prepare and present procurement metrics, supplier scorecards, savings initiatives, and performance reports to leadership.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 6 or more years of procurement, purchasing, or supply chain experience within a manufacturing environment required.

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations Management, Engineering, or a related field preferred; or equivalent directly related work experience.

• Demonstrated experience negotiating supplier agreements and managing strategic supplier relationships.

• Previous experience leading, coaching, or developing employees, direct reports, or project teams is required.

• Experience with MRP/ERP systems and procurement planning.

• Strong understanding of inventory management, production planning, and manufacturing operations.

• Proven ability to analyze data, identify trends, and develop strategic procurement solutions.

• Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.

• Strong financial and business acumen with experience managing cost savings initiatives.

• Mental health support

• Life & disability insurance

• Private health insurance

• Telemedicine

• Company pension plan

• Employee discounts

• Flexible working hours

• Paid sick leave

• Remote work

Find Jobs in Germany on Arbeitnow