JOB DETAILS
Global Lead Procurement (m/w/d)
CompanyiiM GmbH by Exaktera
LocationSuhl
Work ModeOn Site
PostedSeptember 7, 2026
About The Company
iiM GmbH - the name stands for innovative and high quality products in the field of optical metrology as well as LED lighting systems for Machine Vision.
For more than 25 years our two business units have been developing and producing for various industry fields such as the cable, wire and solar industry and also for the automotive industry at our sites in Suhl, Nuremberg, Augsburg and Weißensberg.
The division „Cable Measurement Engineering“ offers solutions for quality assurance during cable production. The second business unit „LED Lighting“ with its brand LUMIMAX® is specialized in powerful LED lighting for Machine Vision.
In order to guarantee a high standard of our processes as well as continuous improvement, we annually undergo an inspection of our Quality Management System according to ISO 9001:2015 and are certified by DEKRA Certification GmbH.
About the Role
Responsibilities
The Global Lead Procurement is accountable for setting and delivering a coherent global procurement approach across Exaktera.
The role combines strategic direction with direct, hands-on procurement execution across sourcing, supplier selection, negotiations, contracts, risk, systems, compliance and total cost of ownership.
It works across sites and functions to improve margin, inventory, working capital, customer delivery and operational resilience, while securing the materials, services and supplier capability required by the business.
The role also leads and develops the global buyer organisation, with emphasis on practical procurement capability, clear accountability and consistent ways of working.
The role combines strategic direction with direct, hands-on procurement execution across sourcing, supplier selection, negotiations, contracts, risk, systems, compliance and total cost of ownership.
It works across sites and functions to improve margin, inventory, working capital, customer delivery and operational resilience, while securing the materials, services and supplier capability required by the business.
The role also leads and develops the global buyer organisation, with emphasis on practical procurement capability, clear accountability and consistent ways of working.
- Set and execute the global procurement strategy, operating model and governance for direct and indirect goods and services, aligned with current and future material and inventory requirements.
- Personally lead and participate in strategic sourcing, supplier selection, supplier relationship management, contracting and negotiations; optimise total cost of ownership and exercise spend, budget and approval authority within agreed delegations.
- Govern supplier performance, supply continuity and risk through clear measures, audits, contingency and dual-source plans, timely escalation and corrective action.
- Partner across functions and sites to improve margin, inventory, working capital, customer delivery and operational resilience while managing inventory levels responsibly.
- Provide the COO and senior leaders with data-led procurement advice, options and reporting to support investment, sourcing, demand and supply decisions.
- Own procurement processes, data, controls and performance reporting; improve ERP and digital procurement systems jointly with Paddy to increase visibility and responsiveness.
- Maintain robust procurement records and audit controls; share compliance accountability with QM/RA and ensure effective supplier-governance practices.
- Lead, develop and succession-plan the global buyer organisation, clarifying accountabilities and building consistent practical capability across all sites.
Your Job Profile
Education / Experience
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience
- Minimum seven years of hands-on procurement experience covering sourcing, supplier selection, negotiations, contracting, cost management, and supplier performance management
- Experience in a global, multi-site manufacturing or supply chain environment preferred
Technical Skills
- Strong procurement and supplier management expertise
- Advanced negotiation, cost analysis, and total cost of ownership (TCO) skills
- Knowledge of international commercial contracting and procurement compliance
- Experience with ERP systems, digital procurement tools, and inventory planning
- Ability to manage supplier performance, supply risks, audits, and dual sourcing strategies
- Data-driven approach to performance management and decision-making
- APICS, CSCMP, or similar certification is an advantage
Soft Skills / Competencies
- Strong commercial judgment and hands-on ownership mindset
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
- High attention to detail and governance standards
- Ability to influence stakeholders across functions and locations
- Strong communication and cross-cultural collaboration skills
- Ability to develop and coach others through credibility, accountability, and leadership
Benefits
- Work-Life Balance: We offer a 35-hour work week with a flexible working time model, allowing you to manage your own schedule.
- Well-being & Job Security: Enjoy a modern and secure long-term workplace where you can work with a high level of autonomy and responsibility.
- Personal Development: Take advantage of free coaching sessions and training opportunities to support your professional growth.
- Compensation & Retirement Benefits: Receive an attractive salary and benefit from a company pension scheme.
- Benefits Allowance or Private Health Insurance: Choose between monthly tax-free benefits in the form of shopping vouchers, supplementary private health insurance (BKV), or a Deutsche Bahn Job Ticket.
- Fitness & Sustainability: Make use of our bike leasing program and commute to the office by bicycle.
- Team Spirit: Enjoy a positive, supportive, and inspiring team atmosphere every day.
- Events & Activities: Join our team events, hiking trips, sports activities, BBQs, and much more.
About us
Welcome to the career section of iiM GmbH.
Pursuing visions together, developing solutions, innovating, but above all being involved with passion. That is what makes iiM unique. A team that is committed and sustainably focuses on the future, seizes opportunities, and continuously adapts to new requirements. With three strong brands, we position ourselves worldwide in different markets to consistently provide our team with a secure job. We want to strengthen our region together with you, grow together, and shape the future – are you in?
Watch our image video -> Arbeiten bei iiM
Key Skills
Strategic sourcingSupplier selectionContract negotiationTotal cost of ownershipRisk managementSupply chain managementERP systemsInventory planningProcurement complianceData-driven decision makingLeadershipStakeholder managementAnalytical skillsProblem-solvingCross-cultural collaboration
Categories
Management & LeadershipLogisticsManufacturingEngineering
Benefits
Flexible working time modelModern and secure workplaceFree coaching sessionsTraining opportunitiesCompany pension schemeTax-free benefitsSupplementary private health insuranceDeutsche Bahn Job TicketBike leasing programTeam events
Job Information
📋Core Responsibilities
The Global Lead Procurement is responsible for setting and executing a global procurement strategy, including sourcing, supplier management, and contract negotiations. The role also involves leading the global buyer organization and partnering across sites to optimize inventory, working capital, and operational resilience.
📋Job Type
permanent employee
📊Experience Level
5-10
💼Company Size
48
📊Visa Sponsorship
No
💼Language
English
🏢Working Hours
35 hours
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