YOUR PROFILE

Skills & Experience

• Proven expertise in utilizing e-sourcing and procurement systems to drive efficiencies and streamline processes.
• Experience in spend analysis, contract development, and execution to maximize savings and optimize procurement strategies.
• Strong ability to develop best practice sourcing methodologies and create effective category strategies aligned with business goals.
• Excellent teamwork, communication, and organizational skills, enabling effective cross-functional collaboration and clear information delivery.
• Strong quantitative and data analysis skills, with the ability to analyze complex data sets to drive insights and decisions.
• Fluency in Business English, with a preference for candidates with cross-cultural experience.
• Ability to interpret and analyze complex financial reports, legal documents, and other technical materials to inform procurement decisions.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Procurement, Supply Chain, Engineering, Business Administration, Information Systems, or related fields (MBA preferred).
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in sourcing/buying for indirect categories or related fields.

Analytical Tools

• Proven ability to solve practical and complex problems by defining issues, collecting data, and drawing valid conclusions.
• Strong quantitative skills for calculating and analyzing complex figures, such as prices, rate cards, discounts, and other financial data.
• Ability to interpret complex instructions, reports, and technical documentation to make informed decisions and provide guidance.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.).
• Experience with strategic sourcing procurement software, including tools like CSO, Freightender, Transporeon, Ariba, Coupa, etc.

The Indirect Procurement Category Manager for Transportation EMEA leads strategic initiatives across road, intermodal, and ocean freight subcategories. Key responsibilities include developing and aligning category strategies globally, negotiating with suppliers, driving cost-saving initiatives, applying procurement tools, managing demand, and optimizing processes. The role also focuses on maintaining strong supplier relationships and collaborating with internal stakeholders across EMEA. Category Managers coordinate with global experts to ensure alignment and best practices.

Responsibilities

• Develops and executes sourcing strategies to improve cost, lead times, working capital, payment terms, and spend transparency, aligned with the Global Transportation strategy.
• Establishes and maintains strong supplier relationships to ensure world-class service and product delivery across multiple businesses.
• Proactively identifies cost-saving opportunities by working closely with internal stakeholders and monitoring vendor performance.
• Leads vendor selection and qualification through research and alignment with Brenntag’s Strategic Procurement Process.
• Manages the preparation and maintenance of RFI, RFQ, and RFPs, overseeing projects from initiation to completion.
• Negotiates agreements and spot purchases, ensuring favorable terms and compliance with contracts.
• Develops, monitors, and enforces Master Service Agreements and procurement policies to maintain operational efficiency.
• Analyzes and ensures the accuracy of spend data to inform decision-making and improve procurement strategies.
• Collaborates with global and regional category managers to align strategies and share knowledge across regions.
• Ensures compliance with company policies, regulatory requirements, and ethical standards, while reporting on procurement performance and market trends.