Category Manager - Metal / Steel
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Location
Saarland
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Sector:
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Job type:
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Salary:
€85000 - €105000 per annum
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Contact:
Nick Cooke
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Contact email:
Nick.cooke@1st-executive.com
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Job ref:
692206_1760447100
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Published:
about 9 hours ago
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Expiry date:
2025-11-13
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Startdate:
ASAP
We're partnering with a global industry leader to find a Senior Category Manager - Metals to drive category strategy, supplier excellence, and innovation across a high-impact materials portfolio. You will be expected to travel to plants in France.
About the Role
As Senior Category Manager for Metals, you'll take full responsibility for defining and executing the global sourcing strategy for metal raw materials that underpin the company's diverse product portfolio.
You'll act as a strategic partner to internal stakeholders, ensuring cost-effective, sustainable, and reliable supply in a market defined by volatility and change.
Working within an international sourcing organization, you'll help build the bridge between procurement, production, and innovation - driving long-term value creation through strong supplier partnerships and data-driven decisions.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and implement the global metals sourcing strategy, aligning with business growth and sustainability objectives
Lead tenders, contract negotiations, and supplier performance management for key metals categories
Monitor and anticipate global metals market trends to inform proactive sourcing decisions
Identify, evaluate, and develop strategic supplier partnerships to secure quality, supply continuity, and innovation
Collaborate with internal stakeholders across production, engineering, and supply chain to meet manufacturing needs
Drive initiatives around supplier innovation, sustainability, and technology sharing
Ensure compliance with regulations, company standards, and ethical sourcing principles
About You
University degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or related field
Experience in procurement or category management within metal raw materials (e.g. steel, copper, aluminium)
Proven experience managing large supplier portfolios and strategic sourcing initiatives
Strong negotiation, analytical, and stakeholder management skills
Fluent in English, German or French language skills desirable
Experience with SAP and solid understanding of category management methodologies
A proactive mindset, resilience under pressure, and passion for continuous improvement and sustainability
What's on Offer
A strategic, high-visibility role within a global manufacturing environment
The chance to shape sourcing strategy for one of the company's most critical material categories
A culture that values innovation, teamwork, and sustainability
Personalized onboarding and access to advanced professional development programs
Excellent opportunities for career progression within an international organization
