Senior Category Manager & Buyer – Automation

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Senior Procurement Professional to lead the sourcing and category management of automation‑related products, systems, equipment, software and services within a highly regulated pharmaceutical manufacturing environment. This strategic, high‑impact role combines deep procurement expertise, commercial acumen and technical understanding of industrial automation technologies.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute the Automation Procurement category strategy, analyse spend, supplier markets and technology trends to identify sourcing opportunities and cost‑optimization initiatives.
• Lead procurement for a broad range of automation technologies including PLC, DCS, SCADA, MES interfaces, industrial networks, robotics, drives, motors, control panels and automation software.
• Manage strategic relationships with OEMs, technology vendors, distributors and system integrators, negotiate complex commercial agreements and drive continuous supplier performance improvements.
• Support CAPEX and project procurement from concept design through supplier selection, contracting, installation, commissioning and hand‑over, ensuring compliance with GMP, validation and lifecycle cost objectives.

Required profile

• Minimum 10 years of experience in strategic procurement, category management or technical sourcing, preferably within pharmaceutical, biotechnology or other highly regulated manufacturing environments.
• Proven track record of stakeholder management in multinational organisations and negotiating with technical suppliers, OEMs and engineering service providers.
• Hands‑on experience with SAP and Ariba and fluent English communication skills.

Required skills

• PLC, DCS and SCADA systems
• MES interfaces and manufacturing automation solutions
• Industrial networks and communication infrastructure
• Robotics and automated material handling systems
• Drives, motors, control panels and electrical automation components
• Automation software licensing and cybersecurity services
• Data historians and production data systems
• SAP
• Ariba