Strategic Purchaser (f/m/d), Procurement Direct Material in Köln

BERNER pushing the limits - for those who dare more Making a choice about your career and your employer is a choice about your future - a future where you will invest your passion and a large portion of your time, energy, and capacity. You don't just buy products. You build supplier networks, drive business performance, and create competitive advantage. If you are passionate about strategic sourcing, thrive in an international environment, and enjoy turning market insights into business results, we would love to meet you. As a Strategic Purchaser (f/m/d), you will play a key role in shaping our global sourcing strategy, developing supplier partnerships, and delivering sustainable value to the business.

YOUR TASKS

• Develop and implement international sourcing strategies for assigned direct material product groups in alignment with corporate and functional objectives.
• Analyze product categories, supply markets, and cost structures to identify opportunities and define strategic sourcing initiatives.
• Conduct market research and actively manage supplier and market-related risks.
• Identify, qualify, evaluate, and develop suppliers to build a high-performing and sustainable supply base.
• Lead price, contract, and commercial negotiations and establish long-term framework agreements.
• Manage supplier contracts throughout their lifecycle and ensure compliance with agreed terms and performance targets.
• Drive cross-functional sourcing projects and collaborate closely with stakeholders across Engineering, Quality, Operations, Supply Chain, and other business functions.
• Identify, develop, and implement cost-saving initiatives using a Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) approach.
• Review and approve invoices within your area of responsibility.
• Leverage modern procurement and digital sourcing tools, including e-Procurement solutions, to continuously improve processes and efficiency.

YOUR PROFILE

• Degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a comparable qualification.
• Alternatively, a commercial or technical vocational background combined with further professional qualifications.
• Several years of experience in Strategic Purchasing, Procurement, or Supply Chain within an industrial or trading environment.
• Strong understanding of sourcing markets, supplier management, and procurement processes.
• Proven experience in supplier negotiations, contract management, and strategic sourcing initiatives.
• Strong analytical and conceptual thinking skills with the ability to transform data into actionable business decisions.
• Structured, self-driven, and result-oriented way of working.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Confidence to challenge the status quo and drive change across functions.
• Strong team spirit combined with a hands-on mentality.
• Advanced Microsoft Office skills and experience with ERP and e-Procurement systems.
• Fluent German and English language skills, both written and spoken.
• Willingness to travel internationally (approximately 20%)

WHY BERNER?

• Job bike leasing (JobRad)
• Commuting allowance
• Wellpass membership & corporate benefits
• Company pension scheme
• Opportunities for further training
• Technically modern equipped workplace
• Company restaurant in Künzelsau or meal vouchers in Cologne
• Attractive conditions for our products in the BERNER online shop

The BERNER Group is a European trading company serving professionals in the mobility, construction, and industrial sectors. We are the leading B2B specialist and an innovative manufacturer of chemical products. Our purpose is: "We are pushing the limits of the possible for the shapers of a better tomorrow." With our strong brands - BERNER, BTI by BERNER, and CCS - we empower our customers to keep their businesses running successfully.

Join our team and shape the future with us! The BERNER Group as employer, dare to differentiate ourselves and provide every employee the opportunity to and enable them to dare to be more. Together, we push our own limits and contribute to shape a better tomorrow.

Making a choice about your career and your employer is a choice about your future - a future where you will invest your passion and a large portion of your time, energy, and capacity. For those who dare to go further in their job and put their whole experience into practice. For those who dare to challenge the status quo and speak up. For those who are brave enough to innovate their business and shift the ordinary to extraordinary.

At BERNER, we understand the importance of building strong relationships and fostering a sense of connection. When you contact us, you’ll be given personalized assistance from start to finish.

And last but not least, we are a b.brave culture. Have the courage to disagree and challenge the status quo. Have the courage to dare to do something new, to develop yourself.

Christian A. W. Berner, Chairman of the Executive Board & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) BERNER Group

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