Description

* Technical categories
* Advanced engineering industry

## About Our Client ##

Our client from the advanced engineering industry located in Basel is looking for a Category Manager (a) with strong technical understanding (focus direct categories). The role focuses on supplier strategy, commercial negotiations, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure cost efficiency, supply continuity, and operational excellence while supporting high-value technical programs. 100% onsite presence desired.

## Job Description ##

The Category Manager (a) will drive strategic sourcing and category management across a complex, project-based engineering environment.

* **Own and Lead Category Strategy:** Define and execute category strategies for assigned spend areas, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives and program needs. Build category structure and governance.
* **Act as Primary Procurement Lead:** Serve as the key procurement and category lead within MRO, RMU, and Completions project teams, leveraging deep technical and commercial knowledge.
* **Manage Supplier Life cycle:** Oversee supplier selection, negotiation, contracting, and performance for critical goods and services. Prepare business cases including total cost of ownership and ROI analysis.
* **Steer Category Performance:** Drive category performance to achieve cost, quality, and delivery objectives in line with business needs.
* **Conduct Market and Supplier Analysis:** Perform market analysis, supplier capability assessments, and cost bench-marking to inform data-driven sourcing decisions.
* **Collaborate with Engineering and Production:** Influence specifications toward cost-effective and supply-secure solutions.
* **Drive Supplier Performance Improvements:** Implement supplier performance improvement plans, addressing quality, delivery, and cost targets.
* **Monitor and Report Category KPIs:** Develop, monitor, and report on KPIs such as cost savings, on-time delivery, supplier quality, and risk indicators.
* **Anticipate and Mitigate Supply Risks:** Develop contingency sourcing plans and maintain strong supplier relationships.





## The Successful Applicant ##

* Degree in Supply Chain, Procurement, Business, Engineering, or a related field.
* 5+ years of progressive procurement/category management experience in a manufacturing or engineering industry.
* Strong technical understanding as well as commercial acumen and negotiation skills, with proven contract management experience.
* Proficiency with ERP systems (e.g., SAP) and procurement/category management tools.
* Fluent in English; German or French is an asset.
* Ability to thrive in a **fast-paced environment**, managing **multiple high-value projects** concurrently.
* Direct exposure to MRO, RMU, or Completions projects in aviation or aerospace is highly valued.
* Familiarity with Lean Management.
* Additional certifications (CIPS, Lean Six Sigma, or other operational excellence certifications) are advantageous.
* Strong influencing and stakeholder management skills across all levels of the organization.





## What's on Offer ##

* An exciting and challenging job in a dynamic environment.
* Various opportunities for professional and personal development.
* Working with the latest technologies and tools.
* Engaging, motivated, and supportive team environment.

Quote job ref

JN-072026-7070054

Job Function

Logistics, Procurement & Supply Chain

Specialisation

Direct Procurement

Industry

Industrial / Manufacturing

Where

Basel-City

Contract Type

Permanent

Job Reference

JN-072026-7070054