Supply Specialist

About the job

At VAT, we are changing the world with vacuum solutions. As the world’s leading provider of high-performance vacuum valves, we have been driving innovation for over 60 years. With more than 3,200 employees worldwide, we operate from our headquarters in Haag (Switzerland) and run production sites in Switzerland, Malaysia, and Romania, as well as sales and service centres around the globe.

Our passion for integrity, teamwork, customer focus, and innovation guides us – always together as #oneVAT.

When you join us, you become part of a dedicated, international team where your voice counts, your ideas make a difference, and your professional development is supported.

Purpose of the Role

As a Supply Specialist, you are responsible for building robust, scalable, and cost-efficient supply chains for new products. In close collaboration with Engineering, Project Management, Category Management, Operations, Quality, and suppliers, you ensure successful product launches and a smooth transition into series production.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement supply chain concepts for new products considering supply security, flexibility, and efficient material flow
• Participate in design reviews and drive design-for-supply-chain activities during product development
• Identify supply chain risks and implement appropriate measures to ensure project deadlines and business continuity
• Analyse product costs and support COGS optimisation through sourcing strategies and supplier negotiations
• Represent the supply chain in cross-functional NPI project teams
• Coordinate internal stakeholders and suppliers to ensure alignment regarding deadlines, requirements, and delivery outcomes
• Support supplier selection and onboarding and ensure their readiness for prototype, pilot, and ramp-up phases
• Manage material availability, inventory, and procurement activities throughout the entire NPI lifecycle
• Maintain accurate supply chain master data and ensure effective implementation of NPI planning and control processes
• Be responsible for the handover of NPI projects into series production and proactively escalate bottlenecks and risks in the supply chain

Qualifications

• Completed studies in Supply Chain Management, Purchasing, Engineering, or a related field
• At least 3 years of professional experience in supply chain, purchasing, NPI planning, or a comparable production environment
• Very good German skills as well as good English skills
• Strong analytical skills and solid understanding of production processes and cost structures
• Sound knowledge of mechanical and electromechanical products
• Very good ERP knowledge, preferably Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O, as well as very good Excel skills
• Experience with PLM systems is an advantage
• Good understanding of supply chain design, planning concepts, risk management, and the NPI lifecycle
• Proven competencies in project and stakeholder management
• Independent, proactive, and structured working style as well as strong communication and negotiation skills

Our Commitment to Inclusion, Fairness, and Equal Opportunities

We believe in meaningful careers, continuous learning, and equal opportunities for all – as a foundation for innovation and success. We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and promote an inclusive and respectful working environment.

If you have concerns, our compliance channel is available on our website. All reports are treated with strict confidentiality and in accordance with our Code of Conduct .