Head of Procurement - Marketing (M/F/D)

Our client, a leading manufacturing company based in Cologne, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Procurement - Marketing to lead and optimise their marketing procurement strategy. This role is crucial for overseeing all aspects of marketing-related procurement activities and ensuring that the company's marketing spend is aligned with both financial goals and strategic objectives. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in partnering with cross-functional teams, including Marketing, Finance, and Supply Chain, to drive cost efficiency, foster supplier relationships, and manage procurement projects that enhance brand value and market competitiveness.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Sourcing & Procurement:

   • Develop and implement strategic sourcing strategies for marketing procurement categories, including advertising, digital media, creative agencies, event management, and market research.
   • Lead negotiations with marketing suppliers and vendors to secure competitive pricing and favourable terms while maintaining high standards of quality and innovation.
   • Continuously evaluate and optimise the supplier base to ensure alignment with the company's values and sustainability goals.

2. Budget Management & Cost Optimisation:

   • Collaborate with the marketing and finance teams to develop and manage the marketing procurement budget, ensuring that all activities align with the company's financial targets.
   • Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives that support marketing's objectives without compromising brand standards or campaign effectiveness.

3. Supplier Relationship Management:

   • Build and maintain strong relationships with key marketing suppliers to foster innovation, ensure reliability, and address any performance or compliance issues.
   • Conduct regular supplier evaluations and performance reviews, driving continuous improvement in service levels and quality.

4. Stakeholder Collaboration:

   • Act as the primary liaison between marketing, finance, and procurement teams, ensuring that procurement processes are aligned with marketing needs and strategic objectives.
   • Partner with the marketing team to understand their goals, campaign requirements, and timelines, ensuring procurement strategies support their objectives.

5. Risk Management & Compliance:

   • Identify and mitigate potential risks within the marketing supply chain, including legal, ethical, and financial risks.
   • Ensure compliance with all internal procurement policies and relevant external regulations.

6. Data Analysis & Reporting:

   • Use data-driven insights to monitor, analyse, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) for the marketing procurement function.
   • Provide regular reports to executive leadership on spending patterns, cost savings, supplier performance, and overall procurement impact.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Supply Chain, or a related field; Master's degree is a plus.
• 8+ years of experience in procurement, preferably within marketing categories or related fields, with a proven track record of successful cost management and supplier negotiations.
• Strong understanding of marketing activities and the unique procurement needs within a manufacturing setting.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with marketing and finance teams, with strong stakeholder management skills.
• Knowledge of procurement software, data analytics, and reporting tools.
• Fluent in English and German.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strategic Thinking: Able to align procurement strategy with broader business goals and effectively prioritise initiatives.
• Analytic Skills: Proficient in data analysis, cost modelling, and performance tracking.
• Negotiation & Communication: Strong negotiation skills and the ability to communicate effectively with internal teams and external suppliers.
• Problem-Solving: Proactive approach to identifying issues and developing innovative solutions.
• Leadership: Ability to inspire, mentor, and lead a team while fostering a collaborative environment.