Purchasing Category Manager

The Company

We are representing a well-established manufacturer of frozen food products, specializing in snacks such as croquettes, bitter Ballen, frikandel, Mexicano, and vegetarian options. With a dedicated team of over 600 employees across multiple locations in Europe, the company takes pride in producing high-quality, popular food items.

This role is focused on strategic category management and procurement, driving cost optimization, supplier performance, and long-term sourcing strategies across international markets. The candidate will manage supplier relationships, lead negotiations, and collaborate with cross-functional teams including R&D to support innovation and business growth. The position requires strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills, along with experience in procurement systems and fast-paced environments.

• Develop and execute category management strategies to achieve purchasing, cost optimization, and supply continuity objectives.
• Manage end-to-end supplier relationships, including supplier selection, performance evaluation, contract negotiations, and long-term partnership development.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams such as R&D, operations, and regional procurement teams to support product development, sourcing initiatives, and market alignment.
• Identify and implement new sourcing opportunities, alternative suppliers, and efficiency improvements while monitoring market trends and procurement risks.
• Track and analyze category performance through KPIs, procurement data, and market insights to drive continuous improvement, sustainability, and operational efficiency.

• Bachelor’s or University degree in Procurement, Supply Chain, Business, or a related field, with at least 2+ years of experience in a similar procurement or category management role.
• Strong experience in supplier negotiations, stakeholder management, and cross-functional collaboration, preferably within an international or fast-paced business environment.
• Fluent Dutch and strong English communication skills (B2+ minimum) are required;
  Spanish language skills are considered an advantage.
• Hands‑on experience with procurement systems, ERP platforms, e‑sourcing tools, dashboards, and data analysis for category performance and cost optimization.
• Strong analytical, communication, and problem‑solving skills with a proactive, results‑driven mindset; experience in the food industry is a plus.