Corporate Purchaser

About the role

The Corporate Purchaser ensures the selection of the best suppliers for Ascom. He/she is key to all Ascom functions in negotiation and purchasing, focusing on price, quality, lead‑time, value, and flexibility of purchases. This position is located in the Morrisville, NC office and is part of the Global Purchasing Team.

Responsibilities

• Request and collect quotes, evaluate, and negotiate costs and conditions for products, services, or software at suppliers, including tooling, services, and manufacturing equipment, into the Product Creation Process (PCP) or for internal stakeholders.
• Negotiate prices and conditions for third‑party products incorporated into the PCP.
• Evaluate, recommend, and select manufacturers/suppliers according to sourcing processes.
• Negotiate yearly contracts or global BOM parts prices to be used by Ascom’s EMS and centrally.
• Negotiate product prices with EMS suppliers.
• Identify, evaluate, and recommend future suppliers and EMS, as well as manufacturers/suppliers, in line with PCP requirements.

Required skills and competencies

• Proficient use of Microsoft cloud‑based applications and services (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, SharePoint).
• Effective utilization of vendor management software tools to optimize procurement processes, track supplier performance, and manage contracts.
• Understanding of ERP systems and IT applications, combined with in‑depth knowledge of electronics and mechanical manufacturing processes.
• Knowledge of design and process principles and their impact on cost, quality, and capacity within electronics, mechanics, or mechatronics.
• Ability to manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and develop sourcing strategies to achieve cost savings and risk mitigation.
• Understanding and applying principles that optimize manufacturing processes by reducing waste and improving efficiency.
• Strong collaboration and influencing skills to build and maintain positive relationships and drive successful teamwork.

Qualifications

• Degree in Purchasing and Logistics, a technical degree, or equivalent working experience.
• 6–10 years of experience in sourcing or procurement.
• 6–10 years of experience in contracting and contract negotiations, including legal aspects.
• 1–2 years of experience in the IT, telecommunications, or healthcare sector.
• Proven track record of building, maintaining, and developing a strong supplier base over 6–10 years.