Purchasing & Subcontracting Manager
Blancpain — Purchasing & Subcontracting Manager in Delémont, Switzerland. Lead procurement and subcontractor partnerships for the Habillage division.
Overview
Blancpain is a Swiss haute horlogerie manufacture renowned for its mechanical watchmaking and artisanal expertise. Part of a major Swiss watchmaking group, the company combines traditional craftsmanship with state-of-the-art production techniques and a commitment to excellence across its manufacturing sites.
Role & Responsibilities
- Define and implement procurement strategy for components, materials and subcontracted operations to support the Habillage division (watch cases and straps).
- Source, select and qualify suppliers and subcontractors in line with quality, cost and delivery objectives.
- Negotiate commercial terms and long‑term contracts, managing price, lead times and service level agreements.
- Manage supplier performance through KPIs, audits and continuous improvement plans; lead corrective actions when necessary.
- Collaborate closely with Production, Quality, Engineering and Logistics to ensure material availability and conformity to technical specifications.
- Run RFQs and tender processes, analyse total cost of ownership and recommend sourcing solutions.
- Control procurement budgets and drive cost‑optimization initiatives while protecting product integrity and brand standards.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory, environmental and ethical standards across the supply chain.
Qualifications
- Proven experience in procurement and subcontractor management, ideally within precision manufacturing or the watchmaking/luxury goods sector.
- Strong negotiation skills and commercial acumen with a track record of delivering cost and service improvements.
- Ability to manage cross‑functional stakeholders and lead supplier development programs.
- Business‑level French is required; professional English is strongly desirable.
- Familiarity with quality management and supplier qualification processes (audits, PPAP, FAI).
- Experience with ERP systems; SAP experience preferred.
Skills
Experience
Minimum five years of progressive procurement experience with direct responsibility for supplier selection, contract negotiation and subcontractor management; prior experience in precision manufacturing or the luxury watch industry preferred.
Education
Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering or a related discipline; advanced degree or professional procurement certification is an advantage.
Culture
Blancpain cultivates a culture of craftsmanship, precision and continuous improvement, where technical excellence and respect for heritage meet modern manufacturing practices. Teams operate in a collaborative, detail‑oriented environment focused on product quality and innovation.