Join a global leader in the food and nutrition industry, headquartered in the vibrant city of Amsterdam. With over 12,000 employees worldwide and more than 75 production sites globally, we are at the forefront of innovation, nourishing communities around the world. As we continue to expand, we're seeking a dynamic Lead Buyer to join our procurement team and drive excellence in direct materials sourcing. As the Lead Buyer - Direct Materials, you will play a pivotal role in our procurement team. You will collaborate closely with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to create and develop the global category strategy as well as negotiate contracts, optimize costs, and maintain the highest standards of quality and reliability. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a fast-paced environment, contributing to our company's growth and success on a global scale.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement strategic sourcing plans for direct materials, aligned with business objectives and market dynamics.
- Lead supplier negotiations to achieve favourable terms, including pricing, delivery schedules, and quality standards.
- Drive supplier performance evaluations and manage supplier relationships to foster long-term partnerships.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to forecast demand, manage inventory levels, and mitigate supply chain risks.
- Monitor market trends and industry developments to identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and company policies in all procurement activities.
Requirements:
- Several years of experience in direct procurement within the food, FMCG, or consumer industry, with a proven track record of delivering results.
- Strong negotiation skills with the ability to influence stakeholders and drive favourable outcomes.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English. Proficiency in other languages is advantageous.
- Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and make data-driven decisions.
- Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and effectively manage competing priorities.
Benefits:
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement, global internal mobility possibilities.
- Vibrant and inclusive work culture with a diverse team of passionate professionals.
