Category Buyer

Caterpillar; Batam; On-site; IDR 25.000.000 - 35.000.000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturing company is seeking a Category Buyer to manage indirect procurement activities in Batam. The role involves developing procurement strategies, optimizing supplier relationships, and ensuring a resilient supply of goods and services. Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and possess strong data analytics, negotiation, and communication skills. This position requires working onsite five days a week.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement category strategies, including sourcing policies and supplier agreements.
• Identify and execute cost reduction opportunities and quality improvement initiatives.
• Conduct risk assessments and evaluate supplier proposals.
• Act as the primary liaison between internal stakeholders and suppliers.
• Monitor supplier performance focusing on delivery timeliness and quality.
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships.

Skills

Data Analytics

Effective Communication

Interpersonal Relationships

Negotiation

Contract Management

Purchasing Operations

Supplier Relationship Management

Strategic Sourcing

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. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here – we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.

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

Final Details

Caterpillar is not currently hiring individuals for this position who now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status; however, as a global company, Caterpillar offers many job opportunities outside of Indonesia which can be found through our employment website at www.caterpillar.com/careers.

About Caterpillar

Caterpillar Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. For nearly 100 years, we’ve been helping customers build a better, more sustainable world and are committed and contributing to a reduced-carbon future. Our innovative products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value that helps customers succeed.

Posting Dates

October 1, 2025 - October 14, 2025

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

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