Strategic Direct Buyer

Location: Romeoville

GEA Group, founded in Germany in 1881, is a global leader in engineering solutions, serving industries such as food and beverage, pharma, dairy, and more. With over 18,000 employees worldwide and a strong U.S. presence since 1929, GEA combines the heritage of a well-established company with the innovation of a forward-thinking industry leader. At GEA, we’re not just building equipment, we’re building lasting careers with an average employee tenure range from 5 to over 11+ years, reflecting the strong culture, growth opportunities, and support we provide.

Working at GEA Group has significant benefits

• Start strong – Medical, dental, and vision coverage begins on your first day
• Recharge and refresh – Enjoy 12 paid holidays, including a flexible floating holiday, and 136 hours of PTO to relax or explore
• Invest in your future – A 7% 401(k) employer match helps grow your retirement savings faster
• Keep learning – Take advantage of tuition reimbursement to further your education or skillset
• Live well – Our wellness incentive program rewards healthy habits
• Get support when you need it – Access to a confidential Employee Assistance Program for personal or professional guidance
• Save smart – Flexible Health Savings and Spending Accounts to manage out-of-pocket expenses

Responsibilities / Tasks

• Works closely with category managers of respective category and project procurement managers implementing the category strategy and linking it into the business
• Adapts and implements catalogues and framework contracts on Divisional/ regional level in compliance with guidelines
• Runs negotiations, manages RFQs, negotiations, awarding decisions and follow-up with suppliers, takes awarding decisions in line with category strategy
• Executes supplier selection along strategy, requirements, supplier base development, and identification of new suppliers
• Direct involvement in and solving of issues with suppliers (e.g., quality, delivery and service issues), etc.
• Monitors and communicates performance of suppliers
• Strives for automation and digitalization practices and tool improvement
• Ensures cost, availability, innovation, and quality within the sourcing plan creation and execution
• Ensures compliance with procurement process, policies and other statutory requirements within category
• Accountable for achieving agreed KPIs and their reporting
• Monitor and record supplier sustainability efforts
• Market Analysis: Continuously analyze the market and delivery systems to assess present and future material availability. Keep up with trends and advancements in electrical components and materials to anticipate changes in pricing or new opportunities.
• Cost Management: Work toward reducing costs and improving efficiencies in the procurement process. Develop strategies for cost reduction, such as bulk purchasing or long-term contracts, and monitor market conditions to take advantage of price dips.
• Risk Management: Assess and manage risks associated with supplier reliance and supply chain disruptions. Develop contingency plans to ensure a consistent supply of electrical components.
• Compliance: Ensure that all procurement activities comply with relevant laws, regulations, and company policies. Stay informed about changes in legislation that may impact sourcing strategies.
• Reporting and Communication: Prepare and present reports on market analysis, cost savings, supplier performance, and other metrics. Communicate effectively with management and other stakeholders regarding procurement issues and strategies.