Category Buyer

Job description:

On behalf of our client, a global leader in the life sciences industry, we are seeking a strategic and experienced Category Buyer to manage the procurement of engineering services to support a large CapEx investment pipeline. The successful candidate will play a key role within the global procurement team, driving supplier strategy, contract negotiations, and category performance in a highly dynamic environment.

Requirements:

Category Strategy & Procurement Execution:

• Develop and implement category strategies for engineering services, including design, construction, commissioning, and qualification.
• Manage end-to-end sourcing activities, including RFIs/RFQs, supplier selection, contract negotiation, and execution.
• Draft and negotiate contracts in line with internal policies and common industry standards (e.g., IchemE, FIDIC, NEC4 ECC, JCT).

Stakeholder Collaboration:

• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including project buyers, engineering, legal, sourcing, and CoEs, to support project success.
• Act as the procurement lead on large-scale CapEx projects across global sites.

Supplier Management & Market Intelligence:

• Conduct supplier analysis, performance monitoring, and relationship management to ensure optimal cost, quality, and service.
• Track market trends, capacity, and pricing dynamics to inform sourcing decisions and minimize risk.

Continuous Improvement & Compliance:

• Drive savings and efficiency initiatives within the procurement function.
• Onboard and monitor suppliers with regard to Responsible Sourcing initiatives (e.g., sustainability, decarbonization, ethical labor practices).

Competences:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field (required).
• MBA or relevant advanced degree (preferred).

Experience & Skills:

• 10+ years of experience in the procurement of engineering services, ideally within the life sciences or pharmaceutical industry.
• Proven experience managing CapEx projects, particularly in small molecules, biologics bulk production, Fill & Finish, labs, and infrastructure.
• Strong understanding of supplier markets, regulatory standards, and life science-specific requirements.
• Advanced contract negotiation and drafting skills, ideally with knowledge of standard industry contracts.
• Strategic mindset, business acumen, and ability to manage complex stakeholder networks in a matrix environment.
• Fluency in English required; German is an asset.
• CIPS or equivalent certification (preferred).

Compensation benefits:

• A key strategic role within a global procurement team supporting high-impact investment projects.
• A collaborative and cross-functional environment with opportunities for professional development.
• Competitive contract conditions and the potential for long-term engagement.