What are the responsibilities and job description for the Strategic Buyer position at Karl Storz Endoscopy?
Strategic Buyer
Location: Auburn, MA
Company: KARL STORZ North America
Make an Impact on a Global Supply Chain
KARL STORZ is seeking a Strategic Buyer to play a critical role in shaping global sourcing strategies for key material groups and services. This role sits at the center of our Global Supply Chain organization and partners closely with cross-functional and international teams to deliver high value, reduce total cost of ownership, and ensure supply continuity in a regulated medical device environment.
This position is based in Auburn, MA and is an onsite role for the first 6-8 months; there will be an opportunity to transition to a hybrid schedule after that period.
What You'll Do
As a Strategic Buyer, you will own end-to-end sourcing and supplier management for your assigned categories-from demand identification through contract execution and delivery. You will act as a trusted business partner, leveraging market intelligence, data analysis, and supplier relationships to drive cost savings, standardization, and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, align, and execute global category sourcing strategies in collaboration with international counterparts
- Lead complex sourcing initiatives, including RFQs/RFIs, negotiations, and contract execution
- Negotiate and manage supplier agreements, NDAs, and framework contracts
- Drive supplier relationship management, performance metrics, and risk mitigation activities
- Identify and deliver cost reduction and value creation opportunities aligned with corporate savings goals
- Manage material requirements planning, inventory analysis, and supply continuity across multiple sites
- Partner with Demand Planning, Quality, Finance, Legal, and Product Management to support business objectives
- Ensure compliance with FDA regulations (21 CFR 820) and the KARL STORZ Quality Management System
- Support supplier quality, audits, EOL/EOS strategies, and continuous improvement initiatives
What You Bring
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree or 8 years of relevant experience
- Strong computer business applications and systems experience
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Experience working cross-functionally and managing projects
- Strong data analysis and systems aptitude
- Willingness to travel up to 20%
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree and 4 years of experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, or supply chain
- Demonstrated negotiation experience, including pricing, commercial terms, and contractual agreements
- Experience in supply planning and supplier management
- Knowledge of MRP systems; SAP experience a plus
- ASCM or other purchasing certifications preferred
- Strong Excel skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office
- Category expertise within assigned materials or services
Why KARL STORZ?
At KARL STORZ, you'll contribute to innovative medical solutions while working in a collaborative, global environment that values accountability, quality, and continuous improvement. This role offers meaningful visibility, strategic ownership, and the opportunity to make a measurable impact on our supply chain performance.
Who we are:
KARL STORZ is an independent, family-owned company headquartered in Germany's renowned MedTech manufacturing region. For 80 years, we've pioneered the most groundbreaking innovations in endoscopic surgery, video imaging, and operating room integration to benefit patients and healthcare providers alike.
With more than 9,000 associates worldwide and 2,600 in the US, we pride ourselves on harnessing cutting-edge technology, precise workmanship, and unrivaled customer support to help healthcare facilities succeed. With onsite locations and field opportunities across the country, we attract a diverse and talented staff. It's not just about the tools we create-it's about the lives we change, together.
#LI-CW1
KSEA provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, KSEA complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment.