Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd. (SHI) is a renowned global manufacturer of industrial machinery with a legacy of excellence and innovation spanning over 400 years. Our division, Drive Technologies (DT), is recognized as a global designer, manufacturer, and supplier of drives, custom drive solutions, industrial gearboxes, electrical motors, and variable frequency drives.

About the Company

Lafert Group, based in San Donà di Piave, Italy, has been a leader in Europe for over 60 years in designing and producing electric motors and customized drives, particularly in industrial automation, energy saving, and renewable energy. We focus on creating electric motors that enhance efficiency through reliability, performance, and compact design, supported by our investment in people and innovation. With thirteen locations across Europe, North America, Asia, and Australia, we are committed to research and development of cutting-edge electric motors.

The Role

Reporting to the Purchasing Manager, you will be responsible for the operational and tactical management of purchasing for non-core categories (indirect procurement), contributing to process efficiency and cost optimization.

Responsibilities

• Manage purchasing for assigned non-core categories (indirect), such as transportation, packaging, workshop consumables, PPE, and general services, ensuring economic competitiveness and adequate service levels.
• Conduct commercial negotiations and contractual discussions with suppliers.
• Oversee the supplier panel for managed categories, ensuring reliability and continuity of supplies.
• Collaborate with internal functions (Supply Chain, Logistics, Production, Technical Office) to understand needs and align operational priorities.
• Analyze spending data (spend analysis) and supplier performance, identifying savings opportunities and rationalization.
• Support continuous improvement of purchasing processes for indirect categories.
• Scout and qualify new suppliers to mitigate risk and diversify sources.
• Monitor key purchasing KPIs (cost, service, reliability) and propose corrective actions.

Requirements

• Degree in economics or engineering (or technical diploma with equivalent experience).
• 2-3 years of experience in purchasing, preferably in indirect/non-core categories within structured industrial contexts.
• Good knowledge of major IT tools and ERP systems.
• Proficient in English (written and spoken).

Nice to Have

• Strong negotiation and relational skills.
• Results-oriented with cost sensitivity.
• Analytical approach and data handling capabilities.
• Teamwork and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Operational flexibility and problem-solving abilities.
• Willingness to travel if required.

What We Offer

The economic offer will be commensurate with experience.

We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications with authorization pursuant to Legislative Decree 196/2003. This search respects Legislative Decree 198/2006 and is open to candidates of any gender orientation, sexual orientation, age, ethnicity, and religious belief. This announcement has been designed with respect for diversity and inclusivity. Our company is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from individuals of all genders, ethnicities, religions, sexual orientations, and disabilities.