Strategic Sourcing Manager

The Strategic Sourcing Manager will act as a business partner to key internal groups such as Business Units, Engineering and various Operations functions, helping the organization secure supply capability at the lowest possible cost while protecting brand value. The role sits within a global category management framework and focuses on the Elastomer, Rubber and Plastics material families. Each day the manager will oversee the performance and knowledge base of these categories, contribute to the overall Direct Material and Supply Base results, and represent the categories inside the VAT organization. Responsibilities include meeting cost‑optimization and supply‑base goals, shaping geographic sourcing footprints, and delivering best‑cost country sourcing. The position also requires monitoring market trends, aligning the Direct Materials Category Team with corporate targets, collaborating with Business Units and Engineering on strategic sourcing and product development processes, and driving change across stakeholders. Developing sourcing strategies with approved tools and maintaining active relationships with the worldwide supplier base—coordinated with teams in Switzerland, Malaysia and Romania—are also core duties. Candidates must hold a higher education qualification in Procurement or a comparable field, preferably a master’s degree, and bring four to eight years of deep strategic sourcing experience in global direct‑material categories. Experience in the electronic sourcing market with EMS suppliers, familiarity with specific production techniques, and a background in a complex multinational environment are valued. Strong contract negotiation, analytical abilities, and proficiency with data‑visualisation tools such as Power BI are advantageous. Fluency in English is required, while a good level of German is desirable. The organization emphasizes inclusion, fairness and equal opportunity, encouraging applicants from all backgrounds to join a team that values continuous learning, diverse perspectives and collaborative success.