Job Title: Category Manager - Fleet & Maritime
Location: Rotterdam, Netherlands
Company: Leading Global Provider in shipping industry
Job Type: Full-Time
About Us:
My Client is a global leader in the shipping industry, committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions and driving excellence across all aspects of our operations. As part of our ongoing growth and transformation, we are seeking an experienced and strategic Category Manager for Fleet & Maritime to lead and optimize procurement activities related to fleet management, maritime services, and related categories. This role is key to ensuring that our fleet and maritime services are managed efficiently, cost-effectively, and in line with our operational goals.
Key Responsibilities:
Category Strategy Development:
- Develop and execute a comprehensive procurement strategy for the Fleet & Maritime category, aligning with the company's broader operational goals and long-term objectives.
- Assess market trends, technologies, and best practices to ensure the company stays ahead of the curve in fleet and maritime management.
- Define category goals, cost reduction targets, and performance metrics for fleet and maritime services and ensure alignment with business needs.
Supplier Management:
- Source, evaluate, and manage suppliers within the fleet and maritime categories, ensuring optimal service delivery and competitive pricing.
- Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with key suppliers, negotiating contracts, terms, and conditions to drive value.
- Monitor and assess supplier performance, implementing corrective actions and continuous improvement initiatives as needed.
Contract Negotiation & Management:
- Lead the negotiation of contracts for fleet services, maritime vessels, equipment, and related services, ensuring favorable terms and compliance with legal and safety standards.
- Oversee contract lifecycle management, ensuring suppliers adhere to agreed KPIs and service level agreements (SLAs).
- Review and renegotiate contracts as necessary to drive cost savings, improve service quality, or address changing business needs.
Cost Optimization & Budget Control:
- Manage the Fleet & Maritime category budget, ensuring procurement activities are aligned with financial targets and cost-saving goals.
- Identify and implement cost-reduction strategies and efficiencies, including alternative sourcing options, fleet optimization, and supplier consolidation.
- Track and report on spending, providing forecasts, and highlighting risks or opportunities to senior management.
Fleet & Maritime Operations Support:
- Collaborate with internal teams such as logistics, operations, and compliance to ensure that fleet and maritime procurement activities are seamlessly integrated with day-to-day operations.
- Ensure that the fleet is maintained and upgraded according to industry standards, regulatory requirements, and operational needs.
- Identify opportunities for fleet optimization, such as improving fleet utilization, vehicle uptime, and sustainability initiatives.
Sustainability & Compliance:
- Drive sustainable practices within the fleet and maritime categories by researching and implementing environmentally friendly alternatives, such as low-emission vessels or energy-efficient fleet technologies.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant maritime regulations, safety standards, and environmental laws, ensuring the company meets all regulatory requirements.
Market Intelligence & Risk Management:
- Continuously monitor market trends, technology advancements, and competitor strategies in the fleet and maritime space to ensure the company remains competitive.
- Identify and mitigate procurement risks related to fleet operations, maritime services, and supplier reliability.
- Stay updated on geopolitical or global supply chain risks that could impact fleet and maritime operations.
Cross-Functional Collaboration & Leadership:
- Work closely with cross-functional teams including logistics, legal, finance, and operations to ensure procurement decisions align with broader company objectives.
- Provide guidance and support to other departments on fleet-related procurement matters, including budgeting, forecasting, and project implementation.
- Mentor and develop a team of procurement professionals (if applicable), fostering a high-performance, collaborative work environment.
Qualifications:
- Experience: Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in procurement, category management, or supply chain management, with a focus on fleet management, maritime services, or related industries.
- Industry Knowledge: In-depth understanding of fleet management, maritime operations, and related procurement processes. Experience working with shipping lines, fleet operators, or maritime equipment suppliers is a significant advantage.
- Negotiation Skills: Proven track record in contract negotiation, supplier management, and cost optimization within the fleet and maritime sectors.
- Technical Expertise: Familiarity with fleet management systems, maritime regulations, and logistics software; proficiency with procurement tools and MS Office Suite.
- Strategic & Analytical Thinking: Strong ability to develop and execute strategic procurement plans, analyze market data, and make data-driven decisions to optimize costs and improve service levels.
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Maritime Logistics, or a related field; additional certifications (CIPS, CPSM, etc.) are a plus.
- Languages: Fluency in English is required; Dutch or additional European languages are a plus.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with the capacity to address challenges creatively and strategically.
Why Join Us?
- Growth Opportunity: Join a fast-growing, transformational company and take a leading role in managing an essential category.
- Career Development: Be part of a dynamic team where your contributions will directly impact the company's success and future direction.
- Innovative & Collaborative Environment: Work alongside industry experts and talented colleagues who are passionate about driving change and innovation in the fleet and maritime space.
- Competitive Compensation: Attractive salary and benefits package, including performance-based incentives and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
If you're a strategic, results-oriented procurement professional with experience in fleet and maritime services, looking for an exciting challenge in a fast-paced environment, we'd love to hear from you!
