Strategic Buyer Manufacturing

About GEA

• GEA is one of the largest suppliers for the food and beverage processing industry and a wide range of other process industries. Approximately 18,000 employees in more than 60 countries contribute significantly to GEA’s success – come and join them! We offer interesting and challenging tasks, a positive working environment in international teams and opportunities for personal development and growth in a global company.

• Why join GEA

• GEA is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will therefore receive consideration for employment without regard to age, sex, race, color, religion, world view, national origin, genetics, disability, gender identity, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status or any other protected characteristic required by applicable law. Applicants with disabilities are welcome and will be given special consideration if they are equally qualified.

Your profile and qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (technical or economic fields preferred).

• Procurement or Supply Chain certification (a plus).

• 5+ years of experience in procurement processes.

• Strong background in international contract management.

• Deep knowledge of design-to-cost projects related to welded structures, CNC machining, and carpentry.

• Experience working in complex, multinational organizations.

• Proven market analysis and supplier scouting capabilities.

• Fluent English.

• Strong networking and relationship-building skills.

• Excellent analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and strategic mindset.

• High sense of ownership and accountability.

• Expertise in large and complex negotiations.

• Strong commercial acumen, engagement skills, and results orientation.

• Availability for short business trips.

• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings.

• A strategic role with direct impact on business performance.

• Exposure to international projects and advanced industrial technologies.

• A dynamic environment focused on innovation and continuous improvement.

• Opportunities for professional growth within a complex and stimulating organization.

Your responsibilities and tasks

• Partner with Category Managers and Project Procurement Managers to implement the category strategy and align it with business needs.

• Adapt and manage catalogues and framework agreements at divisional/regional level, ensuring compliance with internal guidelines.

• Lead complex negotiations, manage RFQs, define awarding decisions, and oversee supplier follow-up.

• Select and develop suppliers in line with strategy, identifying new market opportunities and strengthening the supplier base.

• Address and resolve supplier-related issues, including quality, delivery, and service performance.

• Support the scouting of new technologies and materials in collaboration with Technical Offices, R&D, and Production.

• Monitor supplier performance and communicate results, driving continuous improvement.

• Promote digitalization, automation, and enhancement of procurement tools and processes.

• Ensure cost competitiveness, availability, innovation, and quality within the sourcing plan.

• Guarantee full compliance with procurement processes, policies, and statutory requirements.

• Deliver on KPIs agreed with the line manager.