Strategic Buyer

KLA is a global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. Virtually every electronic device in the world is produced using our technologies. No laptop, smartphone, wearable device, voice-controlled gadget, flexible screen, VR device or smart car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays. The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with inspiration, research and development. KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers work together with the world’s leading technology providers to accelerate the delivery of tomorrow’s electronic devices. Life here is exciting and our teams thrive on tackling really hard problems. There is never a dull moment with us.

Job Description/Preferred Qualifications

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Strategic Buyer to lead and manage end-to-end supplier relationships and procurement strategy within our German supply chain .

This role is responsible for ensuring supply continuity, cost competitiveness, and supplier performance while supporting ramp-ups, new product introductions, and long-term growth.

1. Supplier Relationship Management

• Own end-to-end relationship with key suppliers
• Drive supplier performance (OTD, lead time, responsiveness)
• Handle escalations and maintain strong executive alignment

2. Strategic Sourcing & Cost Management

• Lead sourcing strategies and supplier selection
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, and commercial terms
• Monitor cost drivers, inflation, and perform benchmarking
• Drive cost reduction and value engineering initiatives

3. Supply Chain Ownership & Planning Alignment

• Align procurement strategy with forecast, ramp-ups, and lifecycle phases
• Ensure material availability and minimize shortages
• Define PO strategy and ordering policies

4. Capacity & Ramp-Up Readiness

• Evaluate supplier capacity, manpower, and equipment readiness
• Support NPI and production ramp-ups

5. Risk Management & Continuity

• Identify and mitigate supply chain risks (single source, geopolitical, financial, logistics)
• Drive dual sourcing and resilience initiatives

6. Quotation & Cost Transparency (RPC Ownership)

• Own RFQ/RPC processes
• Validate quotations and cost breakdowns
• Control tooling spend and approvals

7. Supplier Performance & Quality

• Monitor supplier KPIs and conduct performance reviews
• Drive improvements and corrective actions

8. Cross-Functional Leadership

• Serve as focal point for Purchasing across:
  • Operations
  • Engineering
  • Planning
  • Quality
  • Finance

9. Commercial & Contract Management

• Manage supplier agreements (LTAs, payment terms, INCOTERMS, liabilities)
• Optimize commercial conditions and risk exposure

Minimum Qualifications

Qualifications & Experience

• B.Sc. in Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain, or related field
• 3+ years of experience in strategic procurement / sourcing
• Experience working with European (preferably German) suppliers
• Strong negotiation and contract management skills
• Solid understanding of supply chain and manufacturing environments
• High proficiency in English (German – advantage)
• Strong Analytical and Excel Skilla

• Willingness to travel internationally up to 25%, primarily to Europe and Asia.

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinking with strong execution capability
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication
• Data-driven decision making
• Ability to manage ambiguity and complex supply environments
• Strong problem-solving and project management skills

We offer a competitive, family friendly total rewards package. We design our programs to reflect our commitment to an inclusive environment, while ensuring we provide benefits that meet the diverse needs of our employees.

KLA is proud to be an equal opportunity employer

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