Purchasing Commodity Team Lead

Our partner produces components and innovative system solutions for vehicle interiors and exteriors.

Job Overview:

The Commodity Team Leader is responsible for managing and optimizing procurement activities for production materials in alignment with automotive manufacturing requirements. The role combines hands-on commodity responsibility with leadership of an international team of approximately ten Commodity Buyers.

The position focuses on defining and executing commodity strategies, driving cost optimization initiatives, and ensuring supply chain resilience across the group. Working closely with suppliers and internal stakeholders, the Commodity Team Leader aligns procurement strategies with business objectives, production needs, and long-term competitiveness.

Main Responsibilities:

• Lead and develop an international team of commodity buyers: 10

• Build up a global commodity management setup and develop commodities strategies with the team

• Take ownership of one or more commodities (e.g. plastic injection-moulded parts)

• Strategy Development: Develop and implement sourcing strategies for key production materials in line with the company’s objectives, ensuring cost competitiveness and supply security.

• Supplier Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to negotiate favourable terms, manage performance, and ensure the delivery of quality materials.

• Cost-Saving Initiatives: Lead cost-saving projects focused on optimizing material costs, reducing waste, and improving overall procurement efficiency.

• Market Analysis: Conduct regular market assessments to identify new opportunities, monitor market trends, and ensure that the company remains competitive in material sourcing.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with engineering, manufacturing, and quality departments to support new product development and ensure timely and cost-effective sourcing of materials.

• Risk Management: Identify and mitigate risks in the supply chain, ensuring continuity of supply while maintaining cost control.

• Contract Negotiation: Negotiate long-term agreements with key suppliers to secure favorable terms and conditions, including price, quality, and delivery terms.

• Data-Driven Decisions: Analyze procurement data to monitor performance against targets, report on cost savings, and identify areas for improvement.

• Responsibility for approx. EUR 150 million annual spend

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Engineering, or a related field (Master's preferred).

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in Purchasing & commodity management, specifically in the automotive industry.

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in leading teams

• Strong knowledge of production materials and processes used in automotive manufacturing.

• Proven track record in developing and implementing cost-saving strategies.

• Excellent negotiation skills with a history of successful supplier management and contract negotiation.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make data-driven decisions.

• Experience in working with cross-functional teams and leading projects.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

• Proficiency in procurement software and ERP systems.

• Fluency in English (German language is a plus)

• Willingness to travel: Approx. 40%