EMEA Non Production Materials Buyer (determined) - Tires

The EMEA Non Production Materials Buyer at Continental is responsible for negotiating acquisition terms, optimizing supplier relationships, tracking orders, and ensuring compliance with procurement protocols. You will also evaluate suppliers, manage invoice discrepancies, and maintain contact with suppliers to ensure timely deliveries.

To qualify for the EMEA Non Production Materials Buyer position at Continental, candidates should hold a university degree in fields like Economics or Technical studies, have a minimum of 1 year of relevant purchasing experience, possess good negotiation skills, and have a good command of the English language at a minimum B2 level.

The EMEA Non Production Materials Buyer contributes to sustainability by focusing on the sustainable reduction of purchasing prices while ensuring quality aspects are maintained. This role also emphasizes collaboration with suppliers who align with Continental's sustainability goals.

As an EMEA Non Production Materials Buyer at Continental, you can expect numerous benefits, including a 13th salary, performance bonuses, flexible working hours, health and wellness programs, and opportunities for professional development. Additionally, you will enjoy an international working environment and potential travel opportunities.

The work culture at Continental is dynamic and supportive, encouraging innovation and collaboration. As an EMEA Non Production Materials Buyer, you'll be part of an international team that values professional growth and sustainability while providing a flexible work environment.

When handling supplier negotiations, it's essential to be prepared and understand both your needs and the supplier's perspective. Use data to support your negotiation points and aim for win-win solutions. Practice active listening and be open to feedback for effective conflict resolution.

Discuss specific strategies you have used, such as supplier consolidation, strategic sourcing, or implementing cost-saving initiatives. Provide examples of how these strategies improved procurement efficiency or reduced costs.

Talk about your familiarity with SAP and any modules you have used, such as CEOS or CLM. Explain how you've leveraged these tools to manage procurement processes, supplier relationships, and data analysis effectively.

Mention your ability to assess urgency and importance when prioritizing tasks. Discuss any tools or methods you use for time management, such as to-do lists or project management software, ensuring you meet deadlines without sacrificing quality.

Highlight the importance of understanding and communicating procurement policies to all relevant stakeholders. Discuss regular training sessions and compliance checks you conduct to ensure all procedures are consistently followed.

Talk about key performance indicators (KPIs) you track, such as delivery times, quality of goods, and responsiveness. Explain how you use this data to assess, provide feedback, and develop supplier relationships.

Share a specific example where you identified cost-saving opportunities, negotiated better terms with suppliers, or optimized supplier contracts that led to significant savings, including measurable results.

Explain the resources you use to stay informed, such as industry publications, webinars, and networking events. Discuss the importance of staying ahead of trends to maintain competitiveness and make informed purchasing decisions.

Discuss the critical role of communication in ensuring clarity among team members, suppliers, and stakeholders. Highlight how it leads to better collaboration and a smoother procurement process overall.

Emphasize relevant skills, experiences, and personal attributes that align with the responsibilities of the EMEA Non Production Materials Buyer at Continental. Focus on your expertise in negotiation, supplier management, and your commitment to sustainability.