METRO is a leading international food wholesaler which specialises in serving the needs of hotels, restaurants, and caterers (HoReCa) as well as independent merchants (Traders). Around the world, METRO has approx. 15 million customers who benefit from the wholesale company’s unique multichannel mix: customers can purchase their goods in one of the large stores in their area as well as by delivery (Food Service Distribution, FSD) – all digitally supported and connected. In parallel, METRO MARKETS is being developed as an international online marketplace for the needs of professional customers which has been growing and expanding continuously since 2019. Acting sustainably is one of the company principles of METRO which has been listed in various sustainability indices and rankings, including MSCI, Sustainalytics and CDP. METRO operates in more than 30 countries and employs over 85,000 people worldwide. In financial year 2023/24, METRO generated sales of €31 billion.
At METRO, we have set ourselves ambitious goals with our “sCore” growth strategy which is closely accompanied by our Fundamentals. These shared values provide us with rules of conduct that are binding for everyone at METRO, in all countries and companies. Our commitment to wholesale is at the forefront of our mission, and we are constantly striving to improve. With our ONE METRO spirit, everyone stands together, bringing curiosity, determination, courage, drive, commitment, and trust. Find out more about METRO at careers.metroag.de .
Job Description
Full responsibility for the sourcing volume, profitability development and keeping high quality standards for the European Business of the category household. Based on Metros core business the focus is on professional products used by hotels, restaurant and cafes/ caterer.
Your Tasks:
* Develop and implement long & short term EU sourcing strategies for the said categories
* Source and define the best supplier across Europe for related sourcing projects
* Define and implement supplier strategy, lead global negotiation and manage the supplier performance for own brand suppliers for the said category
* Negotiate international contract with A-Brand suppliers
* Overseeing the full product development process for private label products of the said category
* Leading Supplier Performance Management discussion to improve efficiency and profitability
* Build and maintain business network with suppliers and distributors to ensure high product quality and price competitiveness
* Partner with international Category Management team to drive for new business opportunities and improve the assortment range in terms of quality and quantity
* Partner with Service and Administration Teams to ensure smooth and efficient operation in order fulfillment and on time shipment
* Full responsibility in people development and succession planning
Qualifications
* University degree in Business Administration, Retail Management or other related disciplines.
* Operational experience as a Category Manager at a wholesale or retailer for at least 5 years
* Having knowledge in the category of Household with a focus on professional customer or having expertise in working for a company in the hospitality sector is a plus.
* Expertise in international supplier management, leading negotiations, and optimizing product offerings.
* Deep expertise in managing complex product portfolios, developing private labels, and executing long-term strategic plans.
* Proven track record in managing supplier relationships, leading negotiations, and optimizing procurement processes.
* Ability to manage high complex business content in international trade
* Strong Negotiation and Persuasion skills: Negotiate favorable terms and conditions with suppliers, leveraging market knowledge and interpersonal skills to secure highly competitive prices
* Having in depth knowledge utilizing procurement software, e-procurement tools, and supply chain management systems to enhance sourcing and procurement processes.
* Entrepreneurial and customer focus. Strong intercultural skill with experience in leading cultural diversity teams
* Strong leadership skill and ability to convey vision to the teams
* Excellent people skill to build network and manage different stakeholders
* Proficiency level of communication skills in English (both written and verbal) is a must.
* Strong Cross-Functional Collaboration skills: Skilled in working with multiple departments to drive alignment and efficiency
Additional Information
* Work-life balance: Flexible working hours with the option of mobile working in agreement with your line manager, 30 days of holidays.
* Training: A comprehensive training offer via our own training center or externally.
* Well-being: Health days with lots of health checks and information about your well-being, company medical care including a range of preventive services, such as flu shots, OTHEB employee assistance program.
* Exciting life on campus: Free gym and sports classes, Rioba coffee bar, canteen with discounted meals for employees, many campus events.
* Discounts: discounted Jobticket as well as discounts in our wholesale stores and at many partner companies.
* Comfort: Good transport connections, free parking spaces, JobBike.
* Company pension plan: You will receive a contribution to your company pension.
* Family driven: Three daycare centers for children on campus, support of holiday camps for children of employees.