We are looking for an experienced Direct Material Purchaser who will take ownership of assigned commodities and suppliers and actively contribute to ensuring a stable supply of materials for our client’s four European manufacturing plants. This is not an administrative purchasing role. We are looking for someone who can independently lead sourcing processes, negotiate with suppliers, analyze costs, and identify real savings opportunities.
🔴 WHAT WILL YOUR ROLE BE?
You will be responsible for selected direct material commodities, such as steel, stampings, machined and sintered parts, rubber, plastics, hydraulic oils, or packaging materials.
Your main responsibilities will include:
- independently leading price and commercial negotiations with suppliers,
- managing the complete sourcing process from RFQ, quotation evaluation and cost analysis through supplier selection and nomination,
- identifying cost reduction opportunities and optimizing Total Cost of Ownership (TCO),
- cooperating with Engineering, Quality, Production, and Logistics teams,
- leading purchasing and sourcing projects from initial assignment through implementation,
- monitoring supplier performance in terms of Cost – Quality – Delivery,
- developing existing suppliers and identifying new ones,
- acting as the first point of contact for potential suppliers, particularly in the Czech Republic, Poland, and other Central and Eastern European countries,
- supporting supply chain localization activities,
- resolving supply issues and supporting risk management and Business Continuity Planning (BCP) activities,
- taking into account logistics costs, customs duties, and European legislation,
- cooperating with European and global teams.
🔴 WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?
We are looking for an experienced purchaser who is ready to take full ownership of their own supplier and commodity portfolio.
Requirements:
- at least 3 years of experience in direct material purchasing within a manufacturing company,
- proven experience in independently negotiating prices and commercial terms,
- experience in leading sourcing or purchasing projects,
- experience with direct responsibility for assigned suppliers and/or commodities,
- ability to read and understand technical documentation and drawings,
- knowledge of manufacturing processes and materials, such as steel, machining, or stamping,
- experience with RFQs, supplier evaluation, quotation analysis, and cost structure analysis,
- advanced Czech and English, including the ability to conduct commercial negotiations in English,
- at least secondary education in a technical or commercial field with a school-leaving examination; a university degree in a technical or commercial field is an advantage,
- good knowledge of MS Office,
- a Category B driving licence and willingness to travel within Europe.
⭐ WHAT WE OFFER:
- Annual bonus of up to 10% of salary
- 4 weeks of annual leave + 1 additional week after the probation period
- Meal allowance
- Commuting allowance
- Company canteen
🚗 WHY IS THIS POSITION INTERESTING?
This is not a role where you will simply process purchase orders.
You will have real responsibility for suppliers, commodities, costs, and sourcing decisions that directly impact European manufacturing plants.
If you enjoy negotiation, numbers, technology, and finding better supplier solutions, this could be the right next step in your career.
Do you have experience in direct material purchasing and the automotive industry? Get in touch with us.
We welcome applications from both men and women
Our job advertisements may use either masculine or feminine wording solely for readability. We treat all applicants equally, regardless of gender, age, nationality, or any other personal characteristics.
