Strategic Category Manager

What will you do?

As a Strategic Category Manager at Alfen, you play a crucial role in developing and implementing strategic purchasing plans within a specific category, such as Electronic Components and PCBAs. You contribute to achieving our business objectives by driving cost savings, innovation, sustainability, and quality improvement in our supply chain.

You will support Energy Storage System projects, Smart Grid projects, and the latest developments in EV charging solutions.

Your responsibilities include:

• Developing and driving long-term category strategies based on market analysis and business objectives.

• Leading complex negotiations and drafting framework agreements with (international) suppliers.

• Optimizing Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and realizing structural cost savings.

• Evaluating and monitoring supplier performance and driving improvement actions.

• Building strategic partnerships with suppliers, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and risk management.

• Driving procurement projects and actively contributing to multidisciplinary development initiatives within Alfen.

What do we ask of you?

We're looking for a strategically strong procurement professional with an analytical, results-driven, and connecting approach. Someone who takes initiative, creates support, and communicates effectively at all levels. Additionally:

• A completed HBO or WO degree (Bachelor's or Master’s), preferably in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Economics, or a related field.

• At least 5 years of relevant work experience in strategic procurement and category management within an international manufacturing or development environment.

• NEVI II certification or equivalent.

• Experience with ERP systems such as SAP or Oracle, and preferably familiar with Lean, Six Sigma, or other process improvement methods.

• Excellent command of Dutch and English, both spoken and written.

• Available for at least 32 hours per week.

What do we offer you?

At Alfen, we offer you an independent and responsible role with plenty of room for personal input, growth, and innovation within an international production and development environment. You can also count on:

• A competitive salary, with conditions according to the Metalektro CLA.

• 27 vacation days + 13 ADV (reduction of working hours) days per year, with the option to sell 10 vacation days.

• The possibility of hybrid working (maximum of 2 days per week for a 40-hour workweek).

• A company phone and laptop.

• Free access to our online learning platform.

• Active staff associations (AlFun and Young Alfen) for fun activities.

• Sports activities such as the Alfen Fitness Sportlab, running events, and tournaments.

• Pension accrual at PME Pension Fund, with Alfen paying more than half of the premium.

Where will you work?

At Alfen, you work for a leading company at the heart of the energy transition. With our self-developed products and as an experienced system integrator, we are building a sustainable, innovative, and future-proof electricity grid. We are a fast-growing international organization with a strong focus on technology, sustainability, and people development.

Procurement Department

The Strategic and Operational Purchasing department plays a key role in realizing our strategic goals. We manage complex procurement categories, maintain crucial supplier relationships, and ensure optimal conditions in terms of cost, quality, logistics, and innovation. Together, we ensure that our projects—from charging stations to energy storage systems—are supported efficiently and with a future-oriented mindset.

Interested?

If this role speaks to you, apply now via the “Apply Now” button. Your application is an important step toward a future at Alfen. Want to know what to expect during the application process? Click here.

Please note: A reference check, screening, and Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG) may be part of the selection procedure. We continuously review applications and the vacancy may close earlier if a suitable candidate is found.
We do not appreciate unsolicited recruitment offers regarding this vacancy.