Line Manager: Purchasing Manager-Indirect Category
About AIXTRON
AIXTRON is a technology and innovation-driven market leader in deposition equipment (MOCVD) for third-generation semiconductor materials such as GaN, SiC and GaAs—critical enablers for energy efficiency, data communications and AI infrastructure. Headquartered in Herzogenrath, Germany, we hold the #1 market position in each of the markets we serve and build some of the industry’s most sophisticated high-tech systems. What sets us apart is how we combine deep technology focus, customer orientation and speed of innovation with strong team spirit, agility and a collaborative company culture. Learn more at www.aixtron.com.
AIXTRON’s new manufacturing & engineering hub in Malaysia
We are building a new greenfield manufacturing and engineering hub in Batu Kawan, Penang. The site will provide a state-of-the-art cleanroom environment for assembly & test of our high-end systems and will contribute to engineering the next generation of products. Operations are planned to start in 2027 with rapid ramp-up. Beyond technology, the new location is designed as a modern workplace with state-of-the art office and amenities — built to foster collaboration and a strong focus on people’s wellbeing.
Who we are looking for
We are looking for purpose-driven builders: hands-on professionals with entrepreneurial spirit who enjoy setting up structures, improving processes and taking ownership in a fast-moving environment. As pioneers of our Malaysia site, you will help to shape not only your function, but also how we work together locally — while being connected to a global team of around 1,000 employees from ~60 nationalities across Asia, Europe and the US. We offer competitive benefits, outstanding technical expertise, development opportunities and training.
Responsibilities
This role is responsible for the end-to-end management of assigned indirect procurement categories, combining strategic category ownership with hands-on involvement in operational procurement activities. It ensures cost-effective sourcing, reliable supply and efficient execution of the purchase-to-pay process.
- Develop and implement category strategies in close alignment with internal stakeholders, focusing on cost optimization, supplier performance and long-term value creation.
- Translate business requirements into sourcing strategies and lead procurement initiatives to ensure effective and competitive supply solutions.
- Manage end-to-end sourcing processes, including supplier identification, RFQs, evaluation, selection, negotiation and contract award.
- Lead commercial and contractual negotiations with suppliers, ensuring competitive pricing, favorable terms and reliable delivery performance.
- Build, maintain and continuously optimize the supplier base to support current and future business needs.
- Take ownership of operational procurement activities within assigned categories, ensuring efficient execution of the purchase-to-pay process.
- Review and validate purchase requisitions, ensuring clarity of specifications, budget alignment and compliance with procurement policies.
- Ensure timely order placement, delivery tracking and coordination with suppliers and internal stakeholders to secure on-time supply.
- Monitor supplier performance (quality, delivery, responsiveness) and initiate corrective actions if required to ensure continuous improvement.
- Act as the key interface between suppliers and internal functions (e.g. Facility, IT, Production), ensuring alignment and issue resolution.
- Identify supply risks and operational bottlenecks, escalating critical issues and ensuring mitigation actions are implemented.
- Ensure all sourcing and procurement activities comply with company policies, ethical standards and legal requirements.
Qualifications and Skills Required
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Mechanical, Electrical, Supply Chain, or related disciplines.
- Minimum 3–5 years of experience in indirect procurement or category sourcing within a manufacturing environment, with exposure to both strategic sourcing and operational execution.
- Experience managing or supporting multiple indirect categories (e.g. MRO, facility services, IT, utilities), with a good understanding of category dynamics and supply markets.
- Familiar with contract law, incoterms, invoicing, service level agreements.
- Strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to interact confidently with internal departments and external suppliers. Practical skills to handle multiple tasks/projects with time/priority planning.
- Good proficiency in MS Office tools (especially Excel and PowerPoint) and experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred) and SRM tools (e.g. Coupa).
- Fluent in English; Bahasa Malaysia and Mandarin proficiency is a plus.
Working Conditions & Environment
· Role based at AIXTRON Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.
· Majority of the work is at Batu Kawan site.
- Visits to supplier locations will be requested as needed.
