Senior Category Manager and Buyer (Automation)

Are you an automation procurement expert ready to shape sourcing strategies for large-scale pharmaceutical projects across Europe?

Proclinical is seeking a Senior Category Manager and Buyer (Automation) for a contract role based in Switzerland. In this position, you will play a key role in managing procurement activities for automation systems, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and driving cost-effective solutions. This is an onsite role with occasional travel within Switzerland and Europe.

Please note that to be considered for this role you must have the right to work in this location or hold an EU passport.

Responsibilities:

• Lead procurement activities for automation systems, including PLC, DCS, SCADA, and MES interfaces.
• Negotiate with major OEMs to secure favorable terms and conditions.
• Collaborate closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, IT-OT, and Quality teams to align procurement strategies with operational needs.
• Manage CAPEX project procurement, focusing on global standardization and technology sourcing.
• Implement total cost of ownership (TCO) and lifecycle cost management strategies, including equipment maintenance, spare parts, and supplier consolidation.
• Ensure compliance with pharmaceutical manufacturing and validation requirements.
• Support the development and execution of procurement strategies for large-scale projects.

Key Skills and Requirements:

• Strong expertise in procurement and negotiation, particularly with major OEMs.
• Technical knowledge of automation systems, including PLC, DCS, SCADA, and MES interfaces.
• Experience working in pharmaceutical manufacturing environments, with a solid understanding of validation requirements.
• Proven ability to manage CAPEX project procurement and drive global standardization initiatives.
• Strong focus on TCO and lifecycle cost management.
• Willingness to work 100% onsite in Visp, with up to 20% travel within Switzerland and Europe.
• Fluency in English is required; German language skills are a plus.
  

If you are having difficulty in applying or if you have any questions, please contact Olivier Worch at o.worch@proclinical.com.

If you are interested in applying to this exciting opportunity, then please click 'Apply' or to speak to one of our specialists please request a call back at the top of this page.

Proclinical is a leading life sciences recruiter focused on finding exceptional people and matching them with the finest positions across the globe. Proclinical is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

By submitting this application, you confirm that you've read and understood our privacy policy, which informs you how we process and safeguard your data - https://www.proclinical.com/privacy-policy