Inköpschef - Raute Oyj - Distans - Globalt

Reporting to the Vice President of Operations, the Procurement Lead plays a critical role in enabling operational excellence across the Delta and Monroe business units. This position owns end-to-end procurement activities and operates within a matrix organization, partnering closely with the Category Manager to design, influence, and execute a robust procurement strategy. The role is accountable for developing and driving a North American procurement strategy that strengthens supplier partnerships, diversifies sourcing through alternative vendors, implement supplier relationship management platform and establishes master agreements with key suppliers to support scalability, cost optimization, and risk mitigation. In parallel, the Procurement Lead ensures day-to-day operational effectiveness by overseeing purchase order management, tracking lead times and pricing, and proactively resolving issues related to lost or damaged shipments across the organization. This is a highly visible role that blends strategic thinking with hands-on execution, directly impacting supply continuity, cost control, and business performance. If you excel at building strong supplier partnerships, driving measurable cost and performance improvements, and thrive at the intersection of strategy and execution in a complex operational environment, we’d love to hear from you. In this role you Own and lead the end-to-end purchasing function, including: Building, strengthening, and maintaining a high-performing, reliable supplier network Driving cost analysis, strategic sourcing initiatives, and competitive quotation processes Placing and managing purchase orders while proactively monitoring delivery timelines and risks Leading RMA coordination and resolving pricing discrepancies, shortages, and delivery issues Implementing a Supplier Relationship Management Platform to streamline our purchasing processProvide leadership and oversight to a team of two purchasers, supporting development, and ensuring consistent execution. Develop, negotiate, and manage master agreements with key vendors, while maintaining and optimizing terms with secondary suppliers. Continuously monitor market conditions to anticipate changes in supply, demand, pricing, and product availability, and adjust sourcing strategies accordingly. Evaluate and manage supplier performance based on cost competitiveness, quality standards, reliability, and service levels. Research, assess, and select products to ensure optimal balance of quality, cost, and delivery performance. Serve as a key communication hub by proactively flagging potential material delays or supply risks to all relevant stakeholders. Ensure purchase orders are kept current and accurate, reflecting updated pricing, lead times, and delivery commitments. Maintain thorough and accurate records related to pricing, order confirmations, contracts, and vendor performance issues. Prepare and deliver procurement reports that support decision-making and operational planning. Partner closely with Parts Sales and other internal teams to support business needs and ensure supply continuity. Drive continuous improvement initiatives to streamline procurement processes, increase efficiency, and enhance overall effectiveness. Maintain current technical and market knowledge through ongoing professional development, industry publications, and workshops. Perform other duties as required to support operational and business objectives. To succeed in this role, you should have: Minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in purchasing or procurement Post-secondary education in Business or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office and hands-on experience working with ERP systems Familiarity with components used in mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and PLC-based systems is preferred Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and specifications is considered an asset Demonstrated experience negotiating commercial terms and managing supplier and vendor agreements Experience within the wood processing machinery or engineered wood industry is an asset Valid driver’s license and passport required for business travel as needed Attributes Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated commitment to respect, professionalism, and integrity in all interactions Highly analytical with strong numerical aptitude to support pricing analysis, quantity comparisons, cost modeling, and contract evaluation Ability to assess market conditions, supply risk, and supplier performance to support informed procurement decisions Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to proactively identify issues and implement effective, timely solutions Adaptable and resilient, able to perform effectively in a fast-paced, operational environment while maintaining a positive and professional demeanor under pressure Well-organized with strong attention to detail, capable of managing multiple priorities and deadlines simultaneously Comfortable working in a matrix organization and collaborating cross-functionally with operations, engineering, sales, and finance Demonstrates sound judgment and discretion when handling sensitive commercial and contractual information Willingness to continuously expand skills and knowledge through cross-training and ongoing professional development Self-directed with the ability to take ownership of work and drive initiatives to completion Employment requires regular, on-site presence in the office five days per week.