Category Buyer

We are currently seeking an experienced Category Buyer to join a leading pharmaceutical client of ours based in Switzerland. The successful candidate will be an experienced and strategic Category Buyer to manage the procurement of engineerting services (design, construction, commissioning and qualification services) to support large investment pipeline globally, within the organisations CapeEx procurement function.

The role requires English language skills, and candidates to be based in Switzerland, ideally Basel or Visp and surrounding areas as travel is required due to hybrid working conditions.

The role will require extensive experience in Category/Procurement, with a strong background working with CapEx budgets in Engineering environments.

Key Experience:

• CAPEX projects in life science industry (small molecules/biologics bulk productions, FnF, labs and infrastructures)
• Contract drafting and negotiation, preferred knowledge of most common industry contract forms such as (IchemE, FIDIC, NEC4 ECC, JCT, etc.)
• Contribute to development and execute the category strategies for the procurement of engineering services, including design, construction, commissioning and qualification services.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including regional project lead buyers, contract and claim management, responsible sourcing, global engineering, centers of excellence, to understand sourcing needs and contribute to projects successful execution.
• Conduct market research and supplier analysis to identify potential suppliers, assess supplier capabilities, monitor supplier performance and manage supplier relationships.
• Manage entire life cycle of request for information/quotation process for large packages in engineering category, including negotiation of framework and project specific agreements to secure favorable terms and conditions, while ensuring compliance and mitigating contract risks, in accordance with internal policies and industry standards.
• Ensure timely and efficient procurement processes, from requisition to contract, while maintaining quality standards.
• Monitor market trends, pricing, and suppliers capacity dynamics to inform decision-making and minimize risk.
• Implement savings initiatives to achieve category-specific performance metrics.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the procurement function, including process optimization and stakeholder engagement.
• Experienced preparing reports and presentations for senior management, highlighting key metrics, supplier performance, and strategic insights.

The role offers the flexibility of a hybrid work arrangement and is a 12 month contract with possibility of extension.