Category Buyer

For one of our clients, we are looking for a proactive and experienced Category Buyer/Manager for a leading industrial technology company in the Netherlands.This innovative company supplies high-quality components and integrated systems to key sectors such as automotive, aerospace, energy, and infrastructure.Operating across the EMEA region, the company combines technical expertise with a collaborative and decentralized approach, where the procurement function plays a key role in creating strategic value and driving business success.Tasks and ResponsibilitiesYour Role:As a Category Buyer/Manager, you will be responsible for a specific product and service category within the EMEA region. You will manage both direct and indirect spend and ensure optimal performance within your category.This includes internal categories such as CAPEX (equipment and infrastructure), machine maintenance and tooling, facility services (such as cleaning, catering, and security), internal logistics, packaging, labeling, and storage systems.Take full ownership of a defined group of products and services across EMEA, managing both direct and indirect spend, including key internal categories like CAPEX (equipment and infrastructure), machinery maintenance and tooling, facility services (cleaning, catering, security), internal logistics, material handling, packaging, labeling, and storage systems.Own all aspects of category performance: pricing, availability, risk, development, and supplier strategy.Develop and execute programs that drive value across margin improvement, supply security, quality, innovation, and sustainability.Establish efficient processes and maintain clear communication with production sites and central support functions.Lead category strategy development with the Procurement Director and collaborate closely with local teams across multiple countries.Build and implement strategic roadmaps to meet procurement objectives for direct materials and internal services.Manage supplier relationships end-to-end: identification, onboarding, development, and ongoing performance improvement.Lead negotiations and oversee commercial events and tenders at regional and global levels.Implement contracting strategies with strong governance to ensure compliance and effectiveness.Monitor market trends to maintain supplier intelligence and competitive benchmarking.Drive sourcing base development and allocation decisions across factories and regions.Build and nurture strategic partnerships with suppliers and service providers, acting as the primary liaison with internal stakeholders.Provide escalation support and resolve procurement issues swiftly across the region.Champion procurement transformation by promoting best practices, tools, and streamlined processes.Identify and deliver cost-saving initiatives and margin improvements.QualificationsBachelor’s or Master’s degree (HBO/WO level).NEVI 1 and 2 certifications is a plus.Extensive procurement experience in international organizations.Affinity with technical or industrial products.Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel.Experience with ERP systems.Fluent in English; Dutch is a plus.OfferSalary between €7,000 and €8,000 gross per month.8% holiday allowance.Bonus scheme.27 vacation days.7 collective additional leave days (ADV).Laptop and mobile phone provided.Company lease car.Pension scheme with 50% employer contribution.Supplementary pension scheme.Collective health insurance.32-40 hours.