Interim Manager Strategic Purchasing

About the role

The Interim Manager Strategic Purchasing at Deutsche Windtechnik (DWT) plays a critical role in the company's expansion. This role leads and optimizes procurement operations, drives supplier performance, supports project delivery, and localizes components.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage strong relationships with vendors, distributors, and internal teams including Sales, Engineering, EHS, and QA.
• Localize and source components from U.S. suppliers, working closely with German and U.S. departments to ensure alignment and compliance.
• Analyze procurement activities, recommend improvements, and implement efficient procurement methods, including standardization and cooperative buying.
• Negotiate pricing, terms, deadlines, and expectations with vendors while sourcing competitive quotes for materials.
• Identify and qualify new vendors to support strategic growth and business execution.
• Conduct vendor audits and on-site visits to ensure quality, KPIs, and EHS compliance.
• Liaise with project managers to ensure material updates, delivery accuracy, and ongoing procurement support.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, Engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years of procurement experience in a manufacturing, industrial, or engineering environment.
• Valid Driver’s License
• Proven track record in supplier negotiation, localization, and process optimization.
• Experience with ERP systems (preferably IFS and ProAlpha) and strong data analysis skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with ability to collaborate across departments.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with international vendors or multi-national procurement processes.
• Knowledge of EHS and quality assurance standards in a technical environment.
• Hands-on experience in logistics, warehousing, or materials management.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in supplier negotiation, localization, and process optimization.
• Experience with ERP systems (preferably IFS and ProAlpha) and strong data analysis skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with ability to collaborate across departments.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with international vendors or multi-national procurement processes.
• Knowledge of EHS and quality assurance standards in a technical environment.
• Hands-on experience in logistics, warehousing, or materials management.

Skills

• Vendor negotiation skills.
• Deep experience in procurement process optimization.
• Mentoring and guiding team members across departments.

Benefits

DWT offers a competitive compensation package, including a comprehensive benefits program that includes health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $70,000 - $90,000 annually, commensurate with experience.

Schedule

This is a full-time position with a flexible schedule to accommodate project needs.