Global Procurement Manager Freight

Role Overview

We are looking for an experienced Global Procurement Manager Freight to join a leading international company based in Cologne. This full-time position involves managing the procurement strategy for ocean and air freight services, overseeing supplier relations, and ensuring compliance with international shipping regulations and customs laws.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement procurement strategies for ocean freight and air cargo services.
• Negotiate contracts and tariffs with sea freight carriers and freight forwarders.
• Procure sea freight services supporting global company sites.
• Manage and maintain supplier relationships to ensure service quality and cost efficiency.
• Analyze and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to sea freight procurement.
• Ensure adherence to international shipping regulations and internal company policies.
• Improve and develop internal and external processes to manage global freight logistics efficiently and optimize existing logistics workflows.
• Set targets, monitor performance, and supervise schedules of direct subordinate employees.
• Establish and enforce customs compliance policies; ensure all import and export activities align with international trade regulations.
• Provide consultation and training to internal teams on customs and compliance matters.
• Conduct regular audits to verify compliance with customs requirements.

Candidate Profile

• Degree or equivalent commercial qualification in supply chain, logistics, or procurement.
• Several years of experience in various international logistics functions, ocean freight procurement, export control, and supply chain areas.
• At least one year of leadership experience.
• Strong knowledge of foreign trade and customs law.
• Hands-on experience in ocean freight purchasing.
• Extensive background in transportation, logistics, and procurement management including cross-region and country logistics negotiation and management.
• Fluent German and English language skills, with negotiation-level proficiency in German.
• Excellent MS Office skills; knowledge of ERP and TMS systems is advantageous.
• High commitment, flexibility, and strong team spirit.
• Proactive and hands-on approach.
• Experience working in matrix organizations and with regional teams; able to perform under pressure and meet deadlines.

Benefits

• Permanent employment contract.
• Possibility to work from home two days a week.
• Competitive salary with bonus.
• Job ticket provided.
• Challenging tasks with good personal development opportunities within a growing company.
• Free parking spaces.
• Corporate benefits and more.