Category Manager - Direct (a)

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.
Category Manager - Direct (a)
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.
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.
Profile
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.
Job 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.
Michael Page Switzerland
Kamila Fotiou