Business Unit Procurement Manager – Central Europe in Köln

Business Unit Procurement Manager – Central Europe Employment location: Cologne, Dusseldorf or Dresden, Germany General Job Description / Key Responsibilities The Business Unit Procurement Manager is the regional leader of the procurement function, focusing mainly on procurement plan-to-strategy (P2S) and sourcing-to-contract (S2C) processes. The role is responsible for coordinating procurement activities within the business unit, driving the roll-out of best practices and promoting synergies across it. The role supports both the Business Unit VP Operations and the Group CPO across all strategic and operational procurement topics, including category management, best-cost-country initiatives, supplier development, tenders and cost savings programmes, and ensures harmonised and active implementation of procurement practices, tools and policy enforcement. The Business Unit Procurement Manager coordinates all procurement activities of the countries and regions within the business unit, with a dual reporting line to the Business Unit VP Operations and the Group CPO. The role plays an active part in executing CSR / ESG initiatives with suppliers, supports and coaches the Country / Regional Sourcing Managers (from day-to-day matters to the implementation of strategic initiatives at country level), and represents the business unit within the procurement management team. Responsible for: Acting as a strategic advisor to the Business Unit VP Operations and the Group CPO on all procurement matters Ensuring the proper functioning of the business unit's supply chain by developing the best suppliers in terms of cost, delivery, quality, CSR and innovation Implementing cost savings initiatives to achieve savings targets and contribute to project profitability Promoting synergies between countries and regions within the business unit to implement best practices developed elsewhere Steering and coaching country / regional procurement managers and their teams on procurement methodologies Supervising the correct application of compliance within the supply base and the execution of all ESG / CSR initiatives Reporting on target achievement at both category and business unit level Ensuring the contribution of procurement activities (cost, quality, delivery and innovation) to the business unit's P additional European languages (e.g. Spanish, French, Italian or a Nordic language) are a plus Deep knowledge of SRM processes and systems International experience preferred Ability to inspire and coach Results-oriented Qualifications and Experience Work experience: Minimum 10 years of professional experience, including at least 5 years in procurement Industry experience: Retail solutions / Automotive / Technology Budget / sales responsibility: No Formal education: Bachelor's degree in engineering, business or economics; Master's / MBA is a plus Languages: English, oral and written (mandatory). German strongly desirable. Spanish, French, Italian or a Nordic language are a plus Expected results: High-quality and efficient execution of procurement processes, supporting the organisation's commitment to being a long-term sustainable employer Business travel: Both domestic and international travel required