Strategic Buyer - Sheet Metal & Mechanical Assemblies
About this role
Location: Kreuzlingen, Thurgau (CH) ? Ideal for local Swiss candidates or cross-border commuters from Germany
Position Type: Permanent
Full-time (100%)
Work Style: On-site focus in a dynamic manufacturing environment
The Opportunity
Do you have a deep understanding of metal fabrication, strong commercial instincts, and a passion for heavy machinery?
Our client is a global authority in designing and manufacturing specialized, heavy-duty vehicles (5 to 40 tons) built for extreme mobility and defense applications. They are expanding their supply chain operations in Kreuzlingen and need a hands-on, commercially sharp Strategic Buyer to take ownership of their sheet metal and complex mechanical commodities.
How You Will Make an Impact
Drive Commodity Strategy: Formulate and execute long-term sourcing strategies for sheet metal, raw metals, and high-complexity welded assemblies.
Expand the Global Network: Analyze global markets, source new high-performing vendors, and expand strategic supplier partnerships.
Lead Sourcing & Negotiations: Spearhead framework agreements, champion cost-optimization projects, and maintain strict contract compliance.
Elevate Supplier Performance: Partner with Supplier Quality Management (SQM) to conduct audits, evaluate performance, and ensure top-tier deliverability.
Bridge Engineering & Purchasing: Act as the strategic procurement interface for R&D during New Product Development (NPD), translating technical blueprints into optimized commercial terms.
Requirements
Technical & Educational Foundation
Hands-on Technical Background: A completed apprenticeship or technical foundation in mechanics (e.g., Polymechaniker, sheet metal worker, toolmaker) is highly valued.
Commercial Specialization: Advanced certification in procurement/supply chain management (e.g., Einkaufsfachmann/-frau, Dipl. Einkäufer/in) or a degree in Industrial Engineering or Business Administration.
Must-Have Qualifications
Strategic Track Record: Proven experience in strategic purchasing (going well beyond operational ordering).
Metal Expertise: Practical experience sourcing sheet metal fabrication (Blechbearbeitung), metals, and complex mechanical assemblies.
Software: Daily proficiency in SAP ERP and MS Office.
Languages: Business Fluent German (C1?C2) and Fluent English (B2?C1) (written and spoken).
High-Impact Projects: Work on specialized, heavy-duty vehicle platforms that push engineering boundaries.
Prime Location: Situated right on the Swiss-German border, offering direct access for cross-border commuters.
Solid Culture: Join an established team with clear decision-making paths and a classic, grounded Swiss work culture.
If you are ready to combine your technical know-how with strategic purchasing, we'd love to hear from you. Please submit your application (CV, diplomas, and reference letters) to start the conversation!