Category Manager (m/f/d)

Your mission

• You will assume strategic responsibility for procurement, particularly for indirect materials and services in the field of battery recycling.
• You will ensure that all procurement processes are efficient, cost-effective, and timely.
• You will develop comprehensive product group strategies, conduct negotiations, and implement framework agreements.
• You will develop a sustainable and value-adding supplier base to ensure the company's long-term competitiveness.
• You will carry out market analyses, support RFI and RFQ processes, and develop targeted procurement strategies based on these analyses.
• You will review, analyze, and optimize technical specifications to develop procurement alternatives.
• You will prepare, conduct, and follow up on supplier negotiations, contract drafting, and supplier audits.
• You will manage ad-hoc procurements and strategically handle contract disruptions to ensure supply chain continuity and resilience.
• You will oversee strategic and operational categories to achieve optimal procurement in terms of cost, quality, and deadlines.

Your profile

• You have several years of professional experience in strategic purchasing, especially in indirect materials.
• You hold a degree in technical or commercial studies or a comparable qualification, such as a technical apprenticeship (master craftsman/technician), providing a solid foundation for strategic technical purchasing.
• You possess deep knowledge of contract law and apply it confidently to ensure reliable and legally compliant procurement processes.
• You use your technical understanding and analytical skills to process complex requirements and specifications and develop solutions.
• You are proficient in ERP systems and MS Office applications.
• You demonstrate initiative, assertiveness, and strong communication skills.
• You bring flexibility and adaptability to our dynamic environment.
• You are fluent in German and English, both spoken and written.

Why us?

• Work in a young and interdisciplinary scale-up team.
• Enjoy significant responsibility and creative freedom from the start.
• Contribute actively to climate protection and the circular economy.
• Experience team spirit and a family-like atmosphere.

About Us

cylib is a research-based German startup specializing in holistic battery recycling — from discharging to the recovery of all lithium battery components. Founded in Aachen in 2022 by three visionary founders, including a female CEO.

Our process

The cylib process provides a complete end-to-end solution, employing mechanical, thermal, and water-based recovery methods to reclaim lithium, graphite, manganese, and other materials. Developed over years at RWTH Aachen University, it offers an efficient, resource- and climate-friendly way to recover battery materials from end-of-life batteries, enabling a true circular economy in Europe.

Interested?

Please upload your documents and answer the questions in the application form (including annual gross salary expectations). A cover letter is not required. We look forward to receiving your application!