Category Buyer

Caterpillar Inc.; Batam; On-site; IDR 100.000.000 - 200.000.000; Full time

Job summary

A global manufacturing leader in Batam seeks a Category Buyer to manage indirect procurement activities. The role involves leading sourcing initiatives, optimizing supplier relationships, and executing category strategies. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and strong skills in data analytics, communication, and negotiation. The position requires onsite work five days a week and offers an opportunity to contribute to strategic procurement excellence.

Qualifications

• Ability to collect and analyze procurement data.
• Skills in delivering constructive feedback and clear communication.
• Experience in collaborating with internal teams and external partners.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement category strategies.
• Conduct risk assessments and evaluate supplier proposals.
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships.

Skills

Data Analytics

Effective Communication

Interpersonal Relationships

Negotiation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Finance, or related field

Job description

Career Area: Procurement

Job Description

Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc. When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do – but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities.

Job Summary

The Category Buyer is responsible for managing indirect procurement activities at the Batam facility, ensuring strategic alignment between the Finance Services Division and facility/divisional leadership. This role drives procurement excellence through the development and execution of category strategies that enhance cost efficiency, reduce inventory, and improve quality.

The Category Buyer will lead strategic sourcing initiatives, optimize supplier relationships, and ensure a lean, responsive, and resilient supply of goods and services. Using the QCLDM (Quality, Cost, Logistics, Development, and Management) framework, the role involves assessing business risks, evaluating proposals, and continuously improving supply network solutions to support organizational objectives.

What You Will Do

• Develop and implement category strategies, including sourcing policies, supplier agreements, and source-to-pay processes.
• Identify and execute cost reduction opportunities, supplier optimization, and quality improvement initiatives.
• Conduct risk assessments and evaluate supplier proposals.
• Act as the primary liaison between internal stakeholders and suppliers, ensuring alignment with operational needs.
• Monitor supplier performance, focusing on delivery timeliness and quality standards.
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships to support long-term strategic goals.

What You Have

Data Analytics

• Collect and analyze procurement data to identify trends and support decision-making.
• Prepare visual tools (charts, graphs, tables) to communicate insights.
• Use designated software for data analysis and reporting.

Effective Communication

• Deliver constructive feedback and communicate clearly across functions.
• Present ideas and reports effectively, avoiding unnecessary jargon.
• Interpret verbal and non-verbal cues to enhance communication.

Interpersonal Relationships

• Collaborate effectively with internal teams and external partners.
• Demonstrate empathy and adaptability in interactions.
• Understand and respect diverse perspectives.

Negotiation

• Apply basic negotiation techniques to build trust and reach agreements.
• Understand organizational policies related to negotiation.
• Establish rapport with suppliers and stakeholders.

Contract Management

• Understand contract administration responsibilities and processes.
• Interpret standard contract reports and documentation.
• Follow organizational protocols for managing contracts.

Purchasing Operations

• Execute purchasing tasks in compliance with regulations and specifications.
• Use procurement systems and tools effectively.
• Maintain accurate documentation of procurement activities.

Supplier Relationship Management

• Understand the principles and benefits of supplier relationship management.
• Maintain supplier information and support engagement strategies.

Strategic Sourcing

• Understand strategic sourcing concepts and their application.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and cost savings.
• Support sourcing initiatives aligned with organizational goals.

Top Candidates Will Also Have

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in Supply Chain, Business, Finance, or related field.

Additional Information

• Work Location: Batam
• This position requires working onsite five days a week

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply