Job Title: Head of Purchasing
Location: Craiova, Romania - Travel to multiple sites
Industry: Heavy Manufacturing
Company Overview:
We are a leading heavy manufacturing company specializing in industrial machinery and components. Known for our commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability, we are a trusted player in both local and international markets. As we continue to grow, we are looking for an experienced Head of Purchasing to join our leadership team and drive procurement excellence.
Position Overview:
The Head of Purchasing will play a critical role in managing and optimizing all procurement activities for our operations in Craiova. This role is split between overseeing a team of 5-10 purchasing professionals to ensure all purchase orders are fulfilled efficiently, and working strategically to refine our supplier base. You will focus on building strong, cost-effective partnerships with local suppliers, driving savings, and handling negotiations, while also evaluating the broader procurement strategy and suggesting local alternatives that may better meet our needs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Team Management: Lead and support a team of 5-10 purchasing professionals, ensuring the efficient and accurate fulfillment of all purchase orders in line with production schedules and budgetary targets.
- Supplier Relationship Management: Collaborate with existing suppliers to drive cost-saving opportunities, negotiate favorable terms, and ensure timely delivery of quality materials and services.
- Cost Optimization: Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives while maintaining the highest standards of quality. Work with suppliers to secure the best pricing, discounts, and payment terms.
- Strategic Sourcing: Evaluate the company's global supply chain strategy and assess opportunities to shift to local suppliers where they offer better value, shorter lead times, or greater flexibility. Provide insights and recommendations on optimizing the procurement strategy.
- Contract Negotiation: Lead negotiations with suppliers to secure favorable pricing, terms, and conditions. Ensure compliance with company policies, industry regulations, and sustainability goals.
- Inventory and Demand Management: Work closely with production and logistics teams to align material procurement with production schedules, ensuring optimal inventory levels and avoiding both stockouts and excess stock.
- Reporting and Analytics: Monitor key procurement metrics such as cost savings, supplier performance, and procurement efficiency. Provide regular updates and actionable insights to senior management to inform decision-making.
Skills and Attributes:
- Strong leadership abilities with a track record of managing and developing high-performing teams.
- In-depth understanding of procurement processes, supply chain management, and strategic sourcing.
- Excellent negotiation skills and experience managing supplier relationships.
- Ability to think strategically while effectively managing operational tasks.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
- Experience with ERP systems and procurement software (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
- Fluency in Romanian and English (both written and spoken). Additional language skills are a plus.
Why Join Us?
- Opportunity to lead and shape a critical function in a growing company.
- A leadership role with the chance to make a significant impact on procurement strategy.
- Supportive work environment focused on professional growth and development.
If you are an experienced procurement leader with a strong background in managing teams and driving cost-saving initiatives, we would love to hear from you.
