Company OverviewKLA is a global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. Virtually every electronic device in the world is produced using our technologies. No laptop, smartphone, wearable device, voice-controlled gadget, flexible screen, VR device or smart car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays. The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with inspiration, research and development. KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers work together with the world’s leading technology providers to accelerate the delivery of tomorrow’s electronic devices. Life here is exciting and our teams thrive on tackling really hard problems. There is never a dull moment with us.Job Description/Preferred QualificationsWe are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Strategic Buyer to lead and manage end-to-end supplier relationships and procurement strategy within our German supply chain .This role is responsible for ensuring supply continuity, cost competitiveness, and supplier performance while supporting ramp-ups, new product introductions, and long-term growth.1. Supplier Relationship ManagementOwn end-to-end relationship with key suppliersDrive supplier performance (OTD, lead time, responsiveness)Handle escalations and maintain strong executive alignment2. Strategic Sourcing & Cost ManagementLead sourcing strategies and supplier selectionNegotiate pricing, contracts, and commercial termsMonitor cost drivers, inflation, and perform benchmarkingDrive cost reduction and value engineering initiatives3. Supply Chain Ownership & Planning AlignmentAlign procurement strategy with forecast, ramp-ups, and lifecycle phasesEnsure material availability and minimize shortagesDefine PO strategy and ordering policies4. Capacity & Ramp-Up ReadinessEvaluate supplier capacity, manpower, and equipment readinessSupport NPI and production ramp-ups5. Risk Management & ContinuityIdentify and mitigate supply chain risks (single source, geopolitical, financial, logistics)Drive dual sourcing and resilience initiatives6. Quotation & Cost Transparency (RPC Ownership)Own RFQ/RPC processesValidate quotations and cost breakdownsControl tooling spend and approvals7. Supplier Performance & QualityMonitor supplier KPIs and conduct performance reviewsDrive improvements and corrective actions8. Cross-Functional LeadershipServe as focal point for Purchasing across:OperationsEngineeringPlanningQualityFinance9. Commercial & Contract ManagementManage supplier agreements (LTAs, payment terms, INCOTERMS, liabilities)Optimize commercial conditions and risk exposureMinimum QualificationsQualifications & ExperienceB.Sc. in Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain, or related field3+ years of experience in strategic procurement / sourcingExperience working with European (preferably German) suppliersStrong negotiation and contract management skillsSolid understanding of supply chain and manufacturing environmentsHigh proficiency in English (German – advantage)Strong Analytical and Excel SkillaWillingness to travel internationally up to 25%, primarily to Europe and Asia.Key CompetenciesStrategic thinking with strong execution capabilityExcellent stakeholder management and communicationData-driven decision makingAbility to manage ambiguity and complex supply environmentsStrong problem-solving and project management skillsWe offer a competitive, family friendly total rewards package. We design our programs to reflect our commitment to an inclusive environment, while ensuring we provide benefits that meet the diverse needs of our employees. KLA is proud to be an equal opportunity employerBe aware of potentially fraudulent job postings or suspicious recruiting activity by persons that are currently posing as KLA employees. KLA never asks for any financial compensation to be considered for an interview, to become an employee, or for equipment. Further, KLA does not work with any recruiters or third parties who charge such fees either directly or on behalf of KLA. Please ensure that you have searched KLA’s Careers website for legitimate job postings. KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video conferencing with our hiring managers. If you are concerned that a communication, an interview, an offer of employment, or that an employee is not legitimate, please send an email to talent.acquisition@kla.com to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. We take your privacy very seriously and confidentially handle your information.