Procurement Specialist

Job Purpose

Overview we are looking for a motivated and experienced Procurement Specialist to join our direct procurement team. In this role, you will act as a strategic Business Partner for internal stakeholders and a key point of contact for our suppliers, ensuring the smooth, end-to-end management of procurement operations. Beyond executing daily processes, we expect you to take initiative in developing sourcing strategies, effectively utilizing digital platforms, and driving sustainability-focused cost optimization to contribute to our organization’s dynamic growth.

Key Responsibilities

Job Description & Responsibilities:

• Category Management: Manage the end-to-end strategic procurement processes for APIs (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients), excipients, and packaging materials.
• Alternative Source Development: Work closely with cross-functional teams to identify, assess, and onboard alternative suppliers in line with business requirements and procurement strategies
• Digital Sourcing & Vendor Management: Effectively use internal vendor management and e-tender platforms to manage the supplier pool and execute transparent, competitive tender processes.
• Strategic Collaboration: Coordinate closely with the Planning department to manage MRP processes and demand projections, ensuring production continuity.
• Sustainable Procurement: Incorporate environmental, social, and ethical sustainability criteria into supplier selection and evaluation; contribute to logistics and raw material solutions aimed at reducing the carbon footprint.
• Operational Support & Logistics: Work in close coordination with the Customs Operations Specialist to support customs clearance for import orders.
• Process Tracking & Performance: Diligently track order cycles from start to finish and take full ownership of OTIF (On-Time In-Full) performance.
• Compliance & Procedure Management: Ensure full compliance with internal procurement procedures and play an active role in updating procedures according to changing dynamics.
• Global & Regional Contribution: Take an active role in MENA region and international projects, providing professional contributions to cross-functional working groups.

Required Education

Required Skills and Experience

Candidate Profile & Requirements:

• University degree in relevant departments (Preferably graduated in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering),
• Minimum of 3 years of professional experience in procurement (preferably in direct Materials) in the pharmaceutical industry.
• Digital Proficiency: knowledge of SAP S/4HANA and skilled in using Vendor Management and E-Tender platforms to manage bidding and sourcing processes.
• Contract Management: Knowledgeable in drafting commercial contracts, following legal procedures, and managing procurement risks.
• Ownership & Solution Orientation: Ability to take initiative in ambiguous situations and lead projects from end-to-end with a result-oriented mindset.
• Role Model in Teamwork: A constructive professional who supports a culture of collaboration and sets a positive example for colleagues.
• Resilience & Stress Management: Capable of managing cross-departmental relationships in multi-stakeholder, high-speed environments and making sound decisions under pressure.
• Mobility & Growth Mindset: Eager to take on different roles (rotation) throughout the career journey; no restrictions for international travel.

Technical Competencies

Required Behaviours and Competencies

Required Languages

• Proficient English writing and communication skills are required.

Travel required in %

• Based in Istanbul, with the flexibility to work at our Çerkezköy Factory at least one day a week.
• Availability for domestic and international travel; no travel restrictions.