• Bachelor's in supply chain, business, engineering, MBA or equivalent preferred
• At least 10 years in procurement/category management, ideally in packaging, chemicals, or manufacturing
• Successful track record managing categories in multinational settings
• Deep knowledge of packaging materials, suppliers, feedstocks (paper, plastic, steel), and market indexes
• Strong data analysis skills for trends, performance, and cost drivers; experienced with global market indexes (e.g., EUWID)
• Hands-on approach, effective in environments with limited data systems
• Excellent negotiation and contract management skills focused on value and risk mitigation
• Skilled in developing long-term, business-aligned category strategies
• Strong communication and presentation skills with stakeholders at all levels
• Proficient in procurement systems (Microsoft D365, Coupa) and data visualization tools
• Willingness to travel

Departer is a leading German Executive Search firm with over 20 years of experience in global leadership recruitment. We specialize in placing executives in medium-sized enterprises and private equity portfolio firms across DACH, MEAI, ASIA, and ANZ regions. With a deep understanding of the DACH economy, we facilitate successful placements within global management teams across corporate headquarters and entities abroad.

Our German client, a well-established industrial company, is launching a new, dynamic business venture in the UAE with a start-up spirit. Under a new brand focused on digital and service-driven solutions, the goal is to enhance efficiency, transparency, and sustainability for highly sophisticated clients with complex business models in market segments such as construction and infrastructure, operations and facility management, manufacturing as well as vertical multiples, which comprises projects in AI and vertical farming amongst others. We are looking for hands-on, forward-thinking professionals eager to build, shape, and drive something new from the ground up. 

To support this growth, we are looking for an experienced and hands-on Supply Chain Manager (m/f/d) to design, lead, and continuously improve the end-to-end supply chain and procurement function. Build scalable operations in a fast-growing venture with a strong industrial backbone.

Your duties and responsibilities will include:

• Lead the full lifecycle of cross-functional supply chains, from sourcing to delivery, ensuring alignment with business needs and customer expectations
• Develop and implement procurement strategies, manage supplier relationships, and negotiate contracts to ensure quality, reliability, and cost-efficiency
• Design and execute logistics plans, ensuring smooth movement of goods across borders and accurate inventory levels from origin to final delivery
• Analyze supply chain data to identify bottlenecks, optimize performance, mitigate risks, and enable proactive problem-solving
• Predict material requirements in close collaboration with stakeholders, and manage stock levels to support lean, responsive operations
• Champion digital tools and systems (e.g., SAP) to increase transparency, efficiency, and traceability throughout the supply chain
• Work closely with the Managing Director and CFO to align on cost, speed, and scalability targets. Drive initiatives that support business expansion
• Act as a builder and enabler – hands-on, agile, and solution-oriented in a start-up-like environment where no task is too small
• Ensure all supply chain and procurement activities meet legal, regulatory, and ethical standards, particularly in cross-border transactions

To be successful in this role you should have the following skills and experiences:

• You hold a degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field – practical knowledge and hands-on experience are equally valued
• You bring a “can-do” attitude, an entrepreneurial mindset, and a high level of personal initiative
• You have a proven track record in managing complex, international supply chains, ideally in a project-driven or technical environment
• Experience in purchasing, material planning, and coordination with warehouse operations is essential; knowledge of construction-related materials and equipment is a plus
• Strong proficiency in SAP (or similar ERP systems), Microsoft Excel, and digital planning tools
• You are highly organized, resilient under pressure, and excel at prioritizing in a fast-moving, hands-on setup
• You combine analytical thinking with emotional intelligence, integrity, and strong communication skills – inside and outside the organization
• A professional appearance, absolute discretion, and the ability to act autonomously complete your profile
• You are not bound by rigid structures – you thrive in environments that require flexibility, drive, and ownership