Senior Category Buyer - Steel & Forging

Your Key Responsibilities

• Manage the assigned categories of steel and rolled ring forgings across the entire region.
• Plan, initiate, coordinate, and monitor business relationships with suppliers.
• Develop and implement category strategies.
• Lead cost-saving and cost-reduction initiatives.
• Negotiate all aspects of the assigned area effectively, ensuring cross-functional and cross-divisional alignment.
• Manage supplier contracts.
• Continuously monitor the supply market and optimize the supplier portfolio to ensure quality, cost efficiency, on-time delivery, sustainability, and compliance with contractual and legal requirements.
• Coordinate and steer the assigned category, including purchase price planning.

Your Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Purchasing, Supply Chain Management, or a comparable field
• 6+ years of relevant experience in purchasing or procurement
• Strong knowledge of raw materials, forging, and machining processes
• Demonstrated negotiation skills, with proven ability to negotiate contracts and pricing effectively with suppliers
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to evaluate suppliers, market trends, and purchasing data to make informed, data-driven decisions
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective interaction with suppliers, team members, and management
• Experience in project management, including managing timelines, priorities, and resources effectively
• Strong attention to detail and excellent organizational skills
• Proficiency in procurement software and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), as well as advanced Excel skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment
• Willingness to travel as needed
• External applicants must be authorized to work in the US without employment VISA or other sponsorship

Our Offering

At Schaeffler, our success is driven by our employees. We value what you bring to our business, which is why we are committed to providing you with a competitive, comprehensive benefits program that gives you and your family the care you need to lead healthy, productive lives. This includes amongst others the following: 

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage: Employees receive access to a range of medical, dental, and vision insurance plans, ensuring their well-being and peace of mind. 
• Generous retirement savings options: The company provides competitive 401(k) matching contributions (up to 6%), empowering employees to build a secure financial future. 
• Professional development opportunities: The company invests in its employees' growth by offering skill development workshops, and ongoing learning and development programs. Through our Schaeffler Academy you will have access to a state-of-the-art and comprehensive learning and training offering.
• Wellness initiatives: Employees have access to wellness programs and resources aimed at promoting physical, mental, and emotional health, fostering a supportive and thriving work environment.  

See all of our benefits at: Schaeffler Benefits