Category Lead MRO & CAPEX

Client description

Aluminium Duffel is a leading European producer of high-quality rolled aluminum products for automotive, architectural, and industrial applications. They combine cutting-edge production technology, a commitment to sustainability, and decades of expertise to deliver innovative, tailored solutions to clients worldwide.

Purson is seeking an experienced and proactive Senior Category Lead to join Aluminium Duffel’s procurement team, focusing on cost optimization during the engineering, planning and development phases of capital projects and maintenance operations in the aluminium (recycling, casting, and rolling) industry.

This role is critical in minimizing project and maintenance costs through early involvement, controlling overengineering, and identifying competitive suppliers including from low-cost countries (LCCs)—to support the company’s cost-efficiency and performance targets.

Job description

• Early Project Integration: Partner with engineering and project teams during concept and design phases to influence cost-effective design and material decisions.
• Control of Overengineering: Evaluate technical specifications, identify cost drivers, and work with stakeholders to eliminate excessive or unnecessary design features.
• LCC Supplier Development: Identify, assess, and qualify suppliers from low-cost regions with capabilities to supply the aluminium industry
• Cost Reduction Initiatives: Lead sourcing strategies that enable significant cost savings while maintaining technical integrity and supplier quality standards.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Act as a bridge between procurement, engineering, and operations teams to ensure alignment on technical sourcing and cost objectives.
• Market Analysis and Benchmarking: Analyze material and component costs, and conduct supplier benchmarking to inform sourcing and negotiation strategies.
• Negotiation and Supplier Management: Lead supplier negotiations to secure favorable terms on cost, lead times, and technical specifications while ensuring compliance with quality and sustainability standards.
• Risk Identification and Mitigation: Anticipate supply chain risks during early design phases and develop mitigation strategies, such as dual sourcing or early supplier involvement.
• Legal compliance of agreements: negotiate best conditions and identify risks.

Profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Materials Science, Supply Chain, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum 5–7 years of technical purchasing experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of engineering drawings, production processes, and specifications.
• Exceptional negotiation, communication, and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP) and procurement-related analytics tools.
• Ability to challenge and influence engineering designs with a cost-conscious mindset.
• Ability to work with and lead teams
• Fluent English speaking
• Very result oriented
• Knowledge of contract law

Offer

• Innovative – High tech environment: The company harnesses cutting-edge equipment—think Europe’s widest automotive cold‑rolling mill, CALP, and a newly installed ingot milling machine—for efficient, high‑quality aluminum production. Those passionate about technical excellence and modern processes will thrive here.
• Strong Culture of Growth and Feedback: With a culture rooted in open communication and continuous development, Aluminium Duffel encourages self-reflection and embraces challenges as opportunities for growth. Team members are encouraged to give and receive feedback with respect and authenticity.
• Great Compensation & Generous Benefits: Employees enjoy a competitive gross salary, extensive fringe benefits (including meal vouchers, hospital insurance, group insurance, bonus schemes, and a flexible benefits plan), and up to 44 days of leave annually—supporting a healthy work–life balance.
• Tailored Career Pathways & Onboarding: From structured onboarding that sets new hires up for success, to internal mobility that empowers employees to explore varied roles, Aluminium Duffel invests in long-term individual development. Coaching and support are part of the journey.
• Engaging Employee Life: Beyond work, the company nurtures a vibrant community: annual events like “Casual Friday,” an active sports committee, and wellness initiatives demonstrate that work culture here is inclusive and energizing.
• Purpose-Driven & Sustainable Work: Committed to the “mind over metal” philosophy, Aluminium Duffel is ASI-certified for sustainable production and chain-of-custody standards, reinforcing a sense of shared purpose and environmental stewardship

Contact

Nick Vermeulen | nick@purson.be | 0032 491 13 35 79