Manager Operational Purchasing
Basel, BS, CH, 4030
Since 1967, Jet Aviation has been crafting flight in its smoothest form. From one hangar in Basel, Switzerland, to over 4,500 employees, and some 50 locations worldwide. Aircraft Management, Aircraft Sales, Charter, Completions, Government Services, FBO, Fixed and Rotary Wing Maintenance, and Staffing. Behind every seamless Jet Aviation experience, is a team of dedicated professionals perfecting the art of flight. The artisans of aviation. The craft that brings our customers’ journey to life. In the hangar, on the ground, and behind the scenes. Enabling global flight, with passion.
Position Summary
As Manager, Operational Purchasing, you'll take the lead in driving the day-to-day procurement activities that keep our operations running at peak performance. You will manage a dynamic team of 20 buyers, ensuring timely, cost-effective, and compliant sourcing of parts, materials, and services — all while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.
This is more than a management role it's your opportunity to impact key programs, shape procurement strategy, and lead a team in one of the most exciting industries in the world.
Your mission
- Develop and coach a team of buyers: Foster a high-performing team of 20 FTEs, providing guidance, support, and opportunities for growth in a positive and collaborative environment
- Track and improve performance: Set and Monitor key procurement KPIs to drive execution, meet service level targets, and identify areas for continuous improvement.
- Drive supplier collaboration and performance: Coordinate with vendors to ensure on-time delivery, resolve delays or defects, and negotiate resolutions when needed.
- Ensure cross-functional alignment: Collaborate with internal teams (engineering, logistics, planning, and operations) to support program requirements and seamless supply chain execution.
- Maintain compliant procurement records: Ensure ERP/MRP data is accurate, and procurement documentation is audit-ready and aligned with aviation standards.
- Serve as the procurement escalation point: Resolve complex issues raised by internal stakeholders or suppliers with speed and professionalism.
- Champion process and system improvements: Lead initiatives to optimize workflows, procurement tools, and supplier engagement strategies across the operation.
- Contribute to broader SCM strategy: Provide feedback and insight to improve supplier quality, freight coordination, and project execution across the supply chain organization.
What we offer you
- An exciting and challenging job in a dynamic environment.
- Various opportunities for professional and personal development.
- A truly multicultural team in a global company where diverse perspectives spark innovation
- A motivated and cheerful team that looks forward to working with you.
- Our events are great! We also have lots of fun together outside of working hours.
Your profile
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in Operational Purchasing/Procurement, preferably in a manufacturing or aviation environment.
- Proven leadership ability, with experience managing multicultural teams.
- Strong command of SAP and Microsoft Office tools.
- Excellent English communication skills—both written and verbal.
- Aviation or technical background is a strong asset.
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills
- Comfortable making decisions under pressure
- Proactive, accountable, and solution-driven
- High initiative with a hands-on, assertive approach
- Fast learner who adapts quickly to new challenges
- Strong organizational and planning abilities
If you are interested in a multicultural, challenging and innovative working environment and your profile matches our requirements, we are looking forward to receiving your online application in English.