About Brenntag
Brenntag is the leading global distributor of chemicals and ingredients, committed to connecting customers and suppliers within networks. We add value for our customers and partners every step of the way: through our product knowledge, innovation, and sustainable solutions, combined with our passion for service excellence and commitment to safety..
Headquartered in Essen, Germany and with more than 17,500 experts at about 600 locations in 72 countries, our two global divisions, Brenntag Essentials and Brenntag Specialties, offer a full range of industrial and specialty chemicals and ingredients. Therefore, our clients and partners can count on us for global reach combined with local agility and execution.
As an employer, we embrace diversity and foster a sense of community and collaboration in an environment where employees are encouraged to share ideas and work together. We engage our employees in the company's mission for collective success, by building long-term stability and safety through trust and clarity across the organization. We believe in empowering our employees to reach their full potential and shape the future.
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YOUR ROLE
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.
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.
OUR OFFER
* Exciting professional tasks and challenges in a diverse and secure working environment with the world market leader in the chemical distribution industry and DAX listed company
* Arrange your working hours and breaks flexible via your flextime account; Thanks to our company's internal regulation on mobile working, your professional and private life can be combined even better
* Our personalized onboarding program, guarantees that you will be off to a quick start
* A competitive remuneration package, including holiday pay and a Christmas bonus, awaits you
* Take advantage of our company-sponsored pension scheme
* Benefit from free employee parking, convenient transport connections
* Our "House of Elements" offers modern and ergonomic workplaces, an award-winning company restaurant, and a selection of complimentary coffee varieties
* Your well-being is very important to us: Take advantage of our preventive health care offers, running groups, and yoga courses, and enjoy 30 relaxing days of holiday per year
* Stay fit and do your bit for the environment at the same time: Lease your dream bike conveniently via Brenntag
INTERESTED?
We look forward receiving your application.
Brenntag provides equal employment opportunities to qualified applicants and employees of all backgrounds and identities to create a workplace where difference is valued because it forms a resilient and more innovative organization. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, race, religion or belief, parental and family status, or any other protected characteristic. We welcome applications from women, men and non-binary candidates of all ethnicities and socio-economic backgrounds.
* Exciting professional tasks and challenges in a diverse and secure working environment with the world market leader in the chemical distribution industry and DAX listed company
* Arrange your working hours and breaks flexible via your flextime account; Thanks to our company's internal regulation on mobile working, your professional and private life can be combined even better
* Our personalized onboarding program, guarantees that you will be off to a quick start
* A competitive remuneration package, including holiday pay and a Christmas bonus, awaits you
* Take advantage of our company-sponsored pension scheme
* Benefit from free employee parking, convenient transport connections
* Our "House of Elements" offers modern and ergonomic workplaces, an award-winning company restaurant, and a selection of complimentary coffee varieties
* Your well-being is very important to us: Take advantage of our preventive health care offers, running groups, and yoga courses, and enjoy 30 relaxing days of holiday per year
* Stay fit and do your bit for the environment at the same time: Lease your dream bike conveniently via Brenntag