Lead Buyer – Procurement & Supply Chain Management

Company details

Is metallurgy a dusty, old-fashioned environment? Not at all! The steel industry is reinventing itself! Steel is everywhere. Join the adventure and discover modern practices and technological facilities that are well worth the diversions. The NLMK Group is one of the most important players in the steel industry and one of the most efficient in the world. We are present in 7 countries and have 20 production sites. And we're not stopping there! We know why we exist. We believe in our strategy. We are driven by strong values. The only thing missing is you. Make a big impact and shape the future of a carbon-neutral steel industry with us!

We are conducting a feasibility study on establishing Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) steelmaking in Europe as a pathway to decarbonization of the steel supply chain to supply some of the lowest CO2 flat steel products in Europe. While it is still in the feasibility study stage, this project is a potential game-changer for our shift toward sustainability and decarbonization.

We are actively looking for experienced project and steelmaking engineers to support this study.

If you are interested in joining a project that could create a new leader in low-carbon steelmaking let us know.

Job Details

Function

Mission

The Lead Buyer will be responsible for managing all procurement activities related to the new Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) steelmaking facility project in Europe. The role encompasses the entire procurement lifecycle, from support to development of the procurement strategy through to the selection and management of suppliers, vendors, and subcontractors. The project scope includes both process scope (inside battery limits) and balance of plant (outside battery limits) systems.

The Lead Buyer will work closely with the central procurement team, project engineering, project management, and contracts teams to ensure that all materials, equipment, and services are procured on time, within budget, and to the required specifications. This role requires an individual with significant experience in procurement for large industrial projects, particularly in steelmaking or heavy manufacturing environments, with a deep understanding of the technical and commercial interfaces that drive project success.

Key Responsibilities

1. Procurement Strategy & Planning:

• Develop Procurement Strategy: Support to design and implement a procurement strategy for the project, covering both process scope (inside battery limits) and balance of plant (outside battery limits). Ensure the strategy aligns with the overall project objectives, including cost control, schedule, quality, and risk management.
• Procurement Planning: Develop detailed procurement plans, including timelines, milestones, and critical procurement activities. Ensure alignment with project phases (feasibility, preliminary engineering, basic engineering, and execution).
• Market Analysis: Conduct market research to identify potential suppliers and vendors, evaluating their capabilities and financial stability to ensure they meet the project’s requirements. Assess the supply chain risk and develop contingency plans for critical equipment and materials.

2. Supplier & Vendor Selection:

• Prequalification of Suppliers: Lead the prequalification process for suppliers and vendors, ensuring that they meet the technical, financial, and operational requirements for the project.
• Request for Proposal (RFP) & Tender Management: Prepare and issue Requests for Proposals (RFPs) or Invitations to Tender (ITB), in collaboration with the engineering and project management teams. Manage the tender process, ensuring all commercial and technical criteria are thoroughly assessed.
• Supplier Evaluation: Evaluate proposals based on technical specifications, quality, pricing, delivery timelines, and compliance with safety and regulatory requirements. Work closely with the engineering team to assess the technical aspects of bids and ensure they meet design standards.
• Negotiation & Contract Award: Lead negotiations with suppliers and vendors to secure favorable terms, prices, and delivery schedules. Ensure that all procurement contracts are legally sound, align with project goals, and protect the company’s interests.

3. Procurement Execution & Vendor Management:

• Order Placement & Expediting: Oversee the placement of purchase orders, ensuring that materials, equipment, and services are procured on schedule and in accordance with project specifications. Monitor the progress of orders and expedite delivery as needed to prevent delays in the project.
• Vendor Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and vendors. Ensure ongoing communication and collaboration to address issues, resolve disputes, and ensure the timely delivery of goods and services.
• Performance Monitoring: Track supplier performance to ensure compliance with contract terms, including quality, delivery, and cost control. Conduct regular performance reviews with suppliers and take corrective actions where necessary to maintain project timelines and quality standards.
• Risk Management: Identify potential supply chain risks, such as delays or quality issues, and work with suppliers to mitigate these risks. Implement contingency plans for critical materials or equipment.

4. Commercial & Technical Interfaces:

• Coordinate with Engineering & Technical Teams: Collaborate closely with the engineering teams to ensure that procurement activities align with the project’s technical specifications. Provide procurement input during the design phases (feasibility, preliminary engineering, and basic engineering) to ensure that materials and equipment meet the technical requirements of both the process scope and balance of plant.
• Support Technical Reviews: Participate in technical reviews and interface meetings to ensure that all procurement activities are aligned with the evolving project design and specifications. Address any technical queries or issues related to procurement.
• Supplier Technical Support: Provide technical support to suppliers as required, ensuring that they fully understand project specifications and quality standards. Assist with resolving any technical challenges that may arise during the procurement or fabrication process.

5. Cost Control & Budget Management:

• Cost Estimation & Budget Control: Work with the project finance and procurement teams to estimate procurement costs, track expenditures, and manage the procurement budget. Ensure that all procurement activities stay within budget and that any deviations are reported and addressed.
• Cost Optimization: Implement cost-saving initiatives by identifying opportunities for cost reductions through competitive bidding, supplier negotiation, and alternative sourcing strategies.
• Invoice & Payment Management: Review and approve supplier invoices, ensuring they reflect the agreed-upon terms and conditions. Work with the finance team to ensure payments are made on time and that procurement costs are accurately tracked.

6. Supply Chain Logistics & Coordination:

• Logistics Coordination: Work with the logistics team to coordinate the transportation and delivery of materials and equipment to the site, ensuring that all items arrive on time and are delivered in good condition.
• Inventory Management: Monitor inventory levels of critical materials and equipment, ensuring that stock is available when needed. Develop inventory management strategies to prevent overstocking or stockouts.
• Customs & Import/Export Compliance: Ensure compliance with all relevant import/export regulations and customs requirements for materials and equipment sourced internationally.

7. Compliance & Documentation:

• Procurement Compliance: Ensure all procurement activities comply with company policies, local laws, and industry standards, including environmental and safety regulations.
• Documentation & Reporting: Maintain accurate records of all procurement transactions, including contracts, purchase orders, RFQs, and supplier correspondence. Provide regular procurement status reports to the Project Director and senior management.
• Audit & Quality Assurance: Support internal and external audits by ensuring that procurement processes and documentation are thorough, accurate, and compliant with established standards.

8. Team Leadership & Development:

• Lead & Mentor Procurement Team: Lead and mentor a team of buyers and procurement professionals, providing guidance on procurement processes, supplier negotiations, and contract management.
• Training & Development: Ensure that the procurement team is adequately trained on procurement policies, industry best practices, and any specific project requirements. Promote knowledge sharing and continuous improvement within the team.

Profile

Education

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
• Professional certifications in procurement (e.g., CIPS, CPSM, or equivalent) would be a plus.

Experience

• Procurement in Industrial Projects: At least 8-10 years of experience in procurement for large-scale industrial or infrastructure projects, with a strong focus on steelmaking, heavy manufacturing, or similar sectors.
• EAF Steelmaking Knowledge: Experience in procuring equipment and materials for steelmaking facilities, particularly those involved in Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) technology and associated infrastructure.
• Vendor & Supplier Management: Proven track record in managing complex supplier relationships, negotiating contracts, and ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery of goods and services.
• Supply Chain Logistics: Solid understanding of logistics, inventory management, and transportation processes, particularly for large, heavy, or specialized industrial equipment.
• Procurement Process Management: Experience in developing and managing procurement strategies, including market analysis, RFPs, supplier selection, and procurement execution.

Skills

• Negotiation & Commercial Acumen: Strong negotiation skills with the ability to secure favorable terms, manage contracts, and optimize costs.
• Technical Understanding: Familiarity with the technical requirements of steelmaking facilities and the ability to collaborate effectively with engineering and technical teams to ensure procurement specifications are met.
• Project Management & Organization: Excellent project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple procurement tasks concurrently and align procurement activities with the overall project schedule.
• Analytical & Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess supplier proposals, identify risks, and resolve procurement challenges.
• Communication & Leadership: Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively coordinate between suppliers, vendors, and internal teams.
• Software Proficiency: Familiarity with procurement management software (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Ariba), as well as MS Office applications (Excel, Word, etc.).

Desired Attributes

• Strategic Thinker: Ability to think strategically, balancing long-term goals with short-term project needs and ensuring procurement decisions align with overall project objectives.
• Detail-Oriented: Exceptional attention to detail in contract management, supplier selection, and inventory control.
• Proactive & Results-Oriented: Self-motivated with a strong sense of urgency, able to anticipate issues and act swiftly to address them.
• Problem Solver: Ability to resolve conflicts, supplier issues, and logistical challenges promptly and effectively.

Offer

Working Conditions

• Location: Based in La Louvière, Belgium, with occasional travel to supplier sites, vendor meetings, and project-related locations.
• Hours: Full-time, with flexibility to accommodate project timelines. Occasional extended hours may be required.
• Travel: Some domestic and international travel may be required during key phases of the project.

Why choosing NLMK?

This Lead Buyer role is critical to the successful execution of the EAF steelmaking facility project in Europe. The individual will ensure that procurement activities are well-managed, cost-effective, and aligned with the project’s schedule and technical requirements. This role requires strong experience in procurement management for large industrial projects, excellent negotiation and vendor management skills, and the ability to manage complex commercial and technical interfaces.

Do you want to help shape the future of carbon-free green steel? Do you want to be part of a team where everyone has a say? Do you want to work in a fast-moving environment with plenty of opportunities for career development? You can make a difference and have your voice heard at NLMK Europe!

This is a unique opportunity to start, develop and grow in one of the world's most successful steel companies. NLMK's success is based on the strength of a team with family values and a strong international presence. A team that improves and innovates every day to be better than yesterday. Excellence, customer satisfaction and safety are our key drivers.

Are you interested? Send us your application!
All agencies that have experience with this kind of industrial projects can contact us (a.paternostre@eu.nlmk.com)