Freelance Category Manager

Freelance Category Manager Auxiliary Equipment – Antwerp (Onsite)

For a leading international company active in the maritime and civil infrastructure sector, Aafinlo is looking for an experienced Freelance Category Manager Auxiliary Equipment. This is a 100% onsite assignment in Antwerp, where you combine strategic insight with operational execution and lead a team of buyers within a complex, project-driven environment.

Your role

• Develop and implement category strategies aligned with cost efficiency, quality and sustainability
• Optimise procurement processes and supplier performance
• Lead, coach and support Category Buyers and Operational Buyers
• Manage critical spot buys and framework agreements
• Monitor KPIs and report on category and team performance
• Build and maintain long-term relationships with key suppliers
• Analyse market trends and identify opportunities for innovation and improvement

Your profile

• Minimum 10 years of experience in strategic purchasing, category management or logistics management
• Experience in the maritime and/or civil infrastructure sector is a strong plus
• Proven leadership and coaching experience
• Strong commercial mindset and negotiation skills
• Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach
• Fluent in English; knowledge of Dutch is a plus

What we offer

• A high-impact 1-year freelance assignment
• 100% onsite role in Antwerp
• Competitive freelance rate, to be discussed
• Opportunity to work in a complex, international and technical environment

Practical information

• Location: Antwerp (onsite)
• Start date: as soon as possible 
• Duration: 1 year