* 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