Category Buyer Product Related - multiple categories

As a Category Buyer – Product Related, you will be responsible for sourcing highly complex and innovative technologies for cutting-edge projects. You will play a key role in co-developing and executing the Category Strategy, ensuring optimal performance at commercial, technological, and logistical levels while mitigating quality and supply risks.

You will manage relationships with vendors and manufacturers across multiple mechanical categories, drive cost reduction initiatives, and lead strategic sourcing activities. This is an internationally oriented position where you will work closely with Global Category Managers (GCMs), Procurement Program Leads (PPLs), and cross-functional teams to align procurement strategies with business priorities.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategy Development & Execution:

o Co-define and execute short- and long-term category strategies with the Global Category Manager (GCM) and Category Team.

o Align procurement strategies with business priorities, including cost, quality, supply continuity, and technology advancement.

• Supplier Relationship & Performance Management:

o Act as the main interface for strategic suppliers, fostering strong and sustainable relationships.

o Lead commercial and contractual negotiations to secure optimal agreements.

o Conduct regular business reviews with suppliers to manage performance and drive strategic objectives.

o Identify, develop, and onboard new suppliers, while phasing out redundant or underperforming ones.

• Operational & Risk Management:

o Take the lead in escalations, ensuring resolution of issues related to quality, logistics, and supplier performance.

o Support Quality and Operational Procurement teams when needed.

o Develop the category supply base, identifying opportunities for supplier consolidation and diversification.

• Cross-functional Collaboration:

o Engage with and support various Program Teams through the Procurement Program Lead (PPL) to align procurement efforts with company goals.

o Obtain buy-in from internal executive stakeholders for category strategies and supplier decisions.

Required Qualifications & Skills

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a technical or business-related field (BSc, BEng, MSc).

• Experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, or category management in a technical, mechanical, or manufacturing environment.

Technical & Professional Skills:

• Strong supplier relationship management skills with the ability to balance firm demands with a collaborative, win-win approach.

• Proven expertise in commercial negotiations and contract management.

• Ability to drive cost reduction initiatives while maintaining high-quality standards.

• Familiarity with supply chain risk management and supplier performance evaluation.

Soft Skills:

• Excellent communication and presentation skills, capable of engaging with stakeholders at all levels, including executives.

• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities in high-pressure situations.

• Team player with a proactive and entrepreneurial mindset.

• Ability to influence and secure buy-in from internal stakeholders.

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects and drive strategic procurement initiatives in a global environment.

• Be part of an international team with a strong focus on innovation and technology.

• Lead high-impact supplier negotiations and category strategy execution.

• Work in a dynamic, collaborative, and growth-oriented environment.

What do we offer?

You will work in an international and enterprising working environment with a no-nonsense culture. You get a lot of freedom and responsibility; We aim to attract, inspire, grow, engage and retain talented people. Attractive employment conditions such as 25 vacation days + 13 ADV days and a bonus scheme.

Who are we?

Frencken Mechatronics Europe is engaged in the development and assembly of industrial systems for the semiconductor industry, the healthcare market and for a wide range of analytical applications. The high-quality precision mechanical parts, machine assemblies and vacuum systems are assembled in both cleanroom and non-cleanroom environments. As a service provider, Frencken Mechatronics also produces high-quality precision components and modules for leading clients in the high-tech industry