Procurement Category Specialist

Company Description: A leading international organization in the food and FMCG industry, focused on delivering high-quality products through efficient sourcing and strong supplier partnerships. The company operates in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and emphasizes continuous improvement, sustainability, and global collaboration across its procurement and supply chain functions.

We are looking for a proactive and results-driven Procurement Category Specialist to join our client’s procurement team in Breda. In this role, you will take ownership of assigned categories, drive sourcing strategies, and build strong supplier relationships to ensure cost efficiency, quality, and supply continuity. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to strategic procurement initiatives while working closely with cross-functional and international teams.

• Develop and execute category strategies aligned with business objectives and regional/global procurement plans.
• Manage end-to-end category sourcing activities, including supplier selection, evaluation, and performance management.
• Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives and efficiency improvements across the supply base.
• Lead supplier negotiations on pricing, contracts, and service levels to achieve optimal commercial outcomes.
• Build and maintain long-term relationships with key national and international suppliers.
• Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders such as R&D, operations, and finance on product development and sourcing decisions.
• Monitor market trends, supplier capabilities, and innovation opportunities within assigned categories.
• Ensure supply continuity by identifying and mitigating risks related to logistics, geopolitics, and market conditions.
• Track and report category performance using KPIs such as cost savings, supplier performance, and sustainability metrics.
• Leverage global sourcing opportunities and consolidate volumes across regions where applicable.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Supply Chain, Procurement, Business, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in procurement, category management, or strategic sourcing.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills with a commercial mindset.
• Experience working in cross-functional and international environments.
• Proficiency in data analysis and procurement systems (ERP, e-sourcing tools, dashboards).
• Strong communication skills in English (B2+ level required).
• Dutch language skills are required; Spanish is a plus.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with a proactive and results-driven approach.
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving capabilities.

• Location: Breda, Netherlands
• Contract: 6 months (with possible extension)
• Work Setup: Hybrid (depending on company policy)